2017 Volume 44 Issue 2 Pages 138-144
Purpose: To analyze the effects of respiratory training on respiratory function, swallowing function, QOL of the community-dwelling frail elderly.
Method: Thirty one community-dwelling frail elderly using rehabilitation services underwent 12 rehabilitation sessions that included respiratory training. Outcome measures were evaluated the 12 rehabilitation sessions, prior to training, immediately after the sessions, and at 1 and 6 months after the sessions. Primary outcome measures included respiratory function, swallowing function, and QOL.
Results: Swallowing function, QOL, respiratory function, 6-min walk distance, and thorax flexibility significantly improved during respiratory rehabilitation (between the pre-training evaluation and post-training evaluation). Swallowing function, QOL, respiratory function, and physical function were significantly reduced during the follow-up period (between the post-training evaluation and 6-month follow-up evaluation).
Conclusions: Our results suggest that typical program rehabilitation without respiratory training is not sufficient for the frail elderly to maintain their QOL. Furthermore, respiratory training can help improve QOL as well as swallowing and respiratory function in the frail elderly.
