Author: Viladrosa M1,2, Lavedán A1, Jürschik P1, Mas-Alòs S1,3, Planas-Anzano A3, Masot O1
Affiliation: <sup>1</sup>a Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy , University of Lleida , Lleida , Spain.
<sup>2</sup>b Arnau de Vilanova University Hospital of Lleida , Lleida , Spain.
<sup>3</sup>c National Institute of Physical Education of Catalonia , University of Lleida , Lleida , Spain.
Conference/Journal: J Women Aging.
Date published: 2017 Aug 7
Other:
Volume ID: 1-18 , Special Notes: doi: 10.1080/08952841.2017.1358976. [Epub ahead of print] , Word Count: 151
The aim of this study was to compare fitness levels in women aged 60 and over participating in a supervised exercise program (involving tai chi, recreational gymnastics, and/or aquatic fitness) with those in a sedentary group. An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was performed on a total of 171 women aged from 60 to 92 who attended public community clubs for older adults. The instruments used included the Senior Fitness Test, the Tinetti Balance Assessment Tool, the Katz Index, and the Lawton & Brody Activities of Daily Living Scale. Significant differences in fitness levels were observed when we compared the exercise groups with the sedentary group. Women with better fitness levels had a lower risk of suffering falls and greater autonomy in performing activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living. Agility and gait control were found to be independently associated with exercise groups.
KEYWORDS: Exercise; older adults; physical fitness; women
PMID: 28783470 DOI: 10.1080/08952841.2017.1358976