The effects of functional balance training on balance, functional mobility, muscle strength, aerobic endurance and quality of life among community-living elderly people

Abstract

Aim. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of functional training on balance, functional mobility, muscle strength, aerobic endurance and quality of life among community-dwelling elderly people. Material and methods. Eighteen women were in the exercise group taking part in functional training program for 25 weeks; the control group did not participate in any exercise program. The Fullerton test for balance, Timed Up and Go test for functional mobility, Five-Times-Sit-to-Stand Test for lower limb strength, Two-Minute-Step-in-Place Test for endurance and the quality of life were measured at baseline and after 25 weeks. Results. After the training period in the exercise group the balance and the functional mobility improved more significantly than in the control group (p = 0.027; p = 0.0004, respectively). The quality of life showed a marginal significance (p = 0.083). In terms of lower limb muscle strength and aerobic endurance, the difference between the groups did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.276; p = 0.147). Conclusion. This 25-week functional training improves balance, functional mobility, as well as quality of life among community-living elderly adults; however functional training exercises might require to be completed with more tailored strength exercises. Clinical Rehabilitation Impact. Based on our results, functional training might be a promising exercise program for improving balance, functional mobility and quality of life for community-living elderly people.