Low Load With Blood Flow Restriction for Improving Strength, Balance, and Cognition in Older Adults

Effects of Low Load Resistance Exercise With a Blood Flow Restriction Cuff on Strength, Balance, Physical Performance, Depression and Cognition in Older Adults: a Randomized Controlled Double-blind Study

This study aims to examine the effects of low load resistance exercise with a blood flow restriction cuff on muscle strength, balance, physical performance, depression, and cognitive function in community-dwelling older adults.

This randomized controlled trial investigates the effects of low-load resistance exercise combined with blood flow restriction (BFR) in community-dwelling older adults. A total of 26 participants aged 65 and older will be randomly assigned to either a BFR exercise group or a control group that performs the same resistance exercises without BFR.

The intervention will be conducted twice a week for 8 weeks (16 sessions total). The BFR cuffs will be applied at 50% of the participant's arterial occlusion pressure. Both groups will undergo the same exercise protocol, supervised by trained personnel. Assessments will be performed at baseline and after the intervention.

Primary outcome measures include lower limb strength (5 Times Sit-to-Stand Test), balance ability (Timed Up and Go test), gait performance (10-meter walk test, GaitRite), muscle mass index (SMI) using BWA 2.0, muscle thickness (quadriceps via ultrasound), cognitive function (MoCA), depression level (GDS-K).

Both participants and outcome assessors are blinded to group allocation. This study has received IRB approval from Sahmyook University Institutional Review Board.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Community-dwelling individuals aged 65 years and older who have not had a fall in the past year.
2. No neurological or musculoskeletal condition that would interfere with exercise performance.
3. Clear consciousness and able to communicate effectively.
4. Capable of reading and writing.
5. Able to understand the research explanation and provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Orthopedic, neurological, or vascular conditions that may affect vital signs such as dizziness, blood pressure instability, or fall risk during assessment.
2. Any history of musculoskeletal surgery within the past 6 months.
3. Physician-determined health status that contraindicates exercise participation.
4. Cognitive or literacy impairments that hinder understanding of study procedures.