Home-Based Exercise Training in Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Effects of Home-Based Exercise Training on Physical Fitness and Functionality in Sedentary Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The physical fitness and functionality of older adults are affected during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Regular exercise programs are effective in physical fitness and functioning in older adults. Individualized and supervised exercise programs for older adults in a safe environment can improve physical fitness and functionality. This study aims to examine the effect of home-based and exercise training on physical fitness and functionality in sedentary older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Purpose: This study aims to examine the effect of home-based supervised exercise programs on physical fitness and functionality in sedentary older adults during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Methods: The older adults participating in the study are divided into two groups as exercise group and the control group. Individual exercise training is applied to the exercise group for eight weeks, three days a week, and 45 minutes a day. This exercise training consists of a program that includes strengthening, flexibility, aerobic, and balance exercises. The control group is given only of stretching and breathing exercises. Individuals are evaluated using the Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go Test, Senior Fitness Test, and Tinetti Falling Efficacy Scale before starting the study and at the end of the eight weeks.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Individuals aged between 65-85 years
2. Individuals have 24 points and above from the Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination
3. Sedentary individuals whose physical activity levels are inactive or minimally active group according to the Short form of International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF).
4. Individuals who can stand for at least 90 seconds without assistance
5. Individuals who voluntarily agree to participate in the study
6. Individuals who have not suffered from COVID infection.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Individuals who have malignancy
2. Individuals who are ambulatory with assistance
3. Individuals who have severe vision loss
4. Individuals who have a neurological disease (Stroke, Parkinson, Multiple Sclerosis)
5. Individuals who had surgery in the last six months
6. Individuals who have congestive heart failure
7. Individuals who have received exercise training in the last six months