Effects of Exercise Snacking on Physical Fitness, Cognition, and Pain in Institutionalized Older Adults

The Effects of Exercise Snacking on Physical Fitness, Cognitive Function, and Chronic Pain in Institutionalized Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study aims to compare the effects of two different exercise approaches on health and well-being in older adults living in residential care facilities. One approach, called "exercise snacking," consists of short and frequent bouts of physical activity spread throughout the day, while the other involves longer, structured exercise sessions performed a few times per week.

Approximately 75 adults aged 65 years and older will be randomly assigned to one of the two exercise programs and will participate for 12 weeks. The study will examine whether exercise snacking is as effective as conventional exercise in improving physical fitness, cognitive function, chronic pain intensity, quality of life, and symptoms of anxiety and depression.

The researchers hypothesize that short, intermittent exercise sessions may provide similar or greater health benefits compared to traditional exercise programs and may represent a practical and accessible strategy to promote physical activity in older adults living in institutional settings.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 65 years
• Residence in Associação Casapiana de Solidariedade

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe cognitive impairment (MMSE 0-10)
• Unstable medical conditions (e.g., decompensated heart failure)
• Refusal of consent
• Total inability to walk/move.