The Effects of Somatic-Based Chair Exercises in the Elderly

The Effects of Somatic-Based Chair Exercises on Balance, Pain, and Quality of Life in the Elderly

The primary aim of this study is to investigate the effects of easily applicable somatic-based chair exercises on balance and pain in the elderly. Additionally, the study aims to reveal the impact of exercise on functionality and cognitive level, and the resulting changes in quality of life.

The main research questions addressed in this study are:

• What are the most suitable exercise models that can be applied to improve pain control and balance in the elderly?
• How do the results of different approaches aimed at improving the quality of life in the elderly differ?

Somatic education refers to a process of sensory-motor learning that enables individuals to develop greater conscious control over their physiological functions. In this study, Thomas Hanna's definition of somatics and Hanna Somatic Education will be used. Thomas Hanna (1976) introduced the term "somatics" to describe the discipline of movement reeducation (somatic education/somatic movement), which aims to promote inner awareness of an individual's body. The practice of somatic movement involves pandiculation. Pandiculation is a process that starts with deliberate muscle activation and transitions into a slow and controlled eccentric release. This is done with ongoing sensory focus, and the movements remain gentle, unforced, and require little effort.

The study design involves comparing the effects of structured somatic-based chair exercises with the effects of a conventional exercise method consisting of basic range of motion exercises combined with static stretching.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. 65 years of age or older
2. To be volunteered to participate
3. To be able to speak and understand Turkish at a good level

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Scoring <24 on the Mini-Mental State Examination
2. Any neurological or orthopedic problem that would prevent the implementation of assessment and exercise methods