Effect of a Voluntary Cough Intensity Improvement Program for Community-dwelling Elderly

Abstract

[Purpose] This study investigated the effect of a voluntary cough intensity improvement program for community-dwelling elderly. [Participants and Methods] Thirty-four elderly people were divided into an intervention group (n=17) and a control group (n=17). The intervention group continued the program five days a week for four weeks. The program included three items: supine position on the half-cut pole, expiratory muscle training, and check of voluntary cough intensity. Before and after the program, cough peak flow (CPF) and pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength, chest and abdominal wall mobility were measured. [Results] After the program, CPF and maximal inspiratory pressure of the intervention group had significantly increased. [Conclusion] The results suggest that the voluntary cough intensity improvement program may be helpful for improving CPF and maximal inspiratory pressure in the community-dwelling elderly.