高齢者の転倒リスク関連体力に及ぼすスクエアステップの効果

−運動頻度と期間の違いからみた比較−

抄録

　A squarestepping exercise (SSE) was developed as a feasible and low-cost exercise program to prevent falling in older adults. We had confirmed its effects on the risk of falling; however, the appropriate SSE frequency and duration were unknown. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of SSE performed once or twice a week for a total of 24 exercise sessions. Fifty-eight older adults participated in the study and were allocated into the EX1 (n = 26) and EX2 (n = 32) groups, following settled areas. The EX1 and EX2 groups attended the SSE session once and twice a week, respectively. Each session consisted of a warm-up (15 min), an SSE session (40 min), and a cool-down (15 min). Five physical performance tests (standing up from a lying position, chair-stands, walking around two cones, balancing on one leg with eyes closed, and sit-and-reach) were measured as risk factors for falling. A two-way (time by group) ANOVA indicated that interactions were found in the chair-stands and sit-and-reach, but all tests showed significant time effects. The improvement rate in the EX1 group was larger than that in the EX2 group in each test except for walking around two cones. Of the EX2 group, 23 participants continued the SSE for 3 additional months, and follow-up measurements were then performed. A one-way ANOVA indicated that the participants' ability to chair-stand was significantly increased. In conclusion, performing SSE either once or twice weekly guarded against the risk of falling, and a long-term regimen could provide even better effects.