Effectiveness of Whole Body Vibration on Health Outcomes in Older Adults With Dynapenic Abdominal Obesity

The Effectiveness of Whole Body Vibration Training in Improving Brain Activity, Bone Mineral Density, Quality of Life, and Biomarkers for the Older People With Dynapenic Abdominal Obesity

This study focuses on whole body vibration training (WBVT), a form of neuromuscular training that uses mechanical vibrations. WBVT has been shown to improve muscle function, bone mineral density, and quality of life. While some benefits have been observed in the elderly population, there remains a research gap concerning its effectiveness in older adults with dynapenic abdominal obesity. Therefore, the findings of this study will provide new evidence for health interventions targeting this specific group.

This research targets outpatients aged 65 and above who meet the criteria for dynapenic abdominal obesity. It aims to evaluate the effects of WBVT on brain activity, osteoporosis, quality of life, and biological markers. The study period is from February 1, 2025, to January 31, 2027, with a planned sample size of 120 participants, equally divided into an experimental group and a control group (60 participants each).

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of whole body vibration training on older adults with dynapenic abdominal obesity in the following areas:

Brain activity: Changes in serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).

Bone mineral density: Measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA).

Quality of life: Assessed through questionnaires covering improvements in physical health, mental well-being, and social functioning.

Biomarkers: Changes in levels of total cholesterol, high- and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, C-reactive protein (CRP), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c).

Inclusion Criteria:

Outpatients aged 65 years or older

Diagnosed with dynapenic abdominal obesity

Able to understand and follow simple instructions

Able to communicate clearly and express their own will

Willing to sign the informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

Inability to communicate in Mandarin or Taiwanese, resulting in inability to participate in research activities

Severe visual or hearing impairment that hinders study participation

Presence of cognitive impairment, musculoskeletal or severe osteoporosis-related conditions

Refusal to sign the informed consent form