EFFECTS OF WEIGHT-BEARING AND RUBBER BAND TRAINING ON FRAIL ELDERLY

Abstract

This study examined the effects of weight-bearing training on frail elderly whose level of care service is "care level 1" or "support required". Thirty-seven frail elderly (67-94 years old, mean age 82.8±6.8 years, men : N=8, 67-94 years, mean age 81.5±9.8 years, women : N=29, 69-92 years, mean age 83.1±5.8 years) participated in weight-bearing training including the use of a rubber band to improve physical function and lower limb muscle strength for eight weeks. Subjects were measured by a physical fitness test before and after the training. Ninety-two percent of the subjects completed the study. There was a significant improvement in knee extension maximum strength (1 RM)(p<0.01, n=32), functional reach (p<0.01, n=30), and sit-and-reach (p<0.01). There was a significant correlation between initial fitness level and improvement value (sit and reach : r=-0.362, p<0.05, n=33, functional reach : r=-0.563, p<0.01, n=31, stand up and sit down test : r=-0.729, p<0.01, n=31, stepping : r=-0.433, p<0.05, n=33, normal walking speed : r=-0.393, p<0.01, n=34). In conclusion, these results suggest that weight-bearing training may be a feasible and effective means of preventing muscle weakness and physical frailty for frail elderly. However, it is suggested that individual training programs need to be designed considering initial level of physical fitness.