Abstract
The purpose of this study using a crossover design was to evaluate the effects of physical exercise on mental function of elderly persons. We also investigated self-efficacy to examine the effect of their psychological aspect on continuation of exercise.
The subjects were 22 community-dwelling elderly persons who were utilizing a geriatric day-care facility. Assessments included the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence as an index for activity of daily living (ADL), the Self-Management Skill Scale, and the Self Efficacy for Health Promotion Scale.
Level of depression, cognition and ADL were maintained during the physical exercise intervention, but it's effect on mental function could not be determined. There were no significant differences between changes at the intervention and nonintervention period in mental state (GDS, MMSE) and ADL.
Measured values of the Self Efficacy for Health Promotion Scale significantly correlated with change ratio of ADL, but those of the GDS and MMSE did not correlate with scales of self-efficacy. In order to evaluate psychological factors affecting continuation of exercise, we need to investigate not only self-efficacy but also their recognition and understanding about the purpose of physical exercise, their daily-life background, and their desire to be independent.
