Exercise Training and Its Effects on Activity and Constipation in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Chin A Paw Marijke JM, van Poppel Mireille NM, van Mechelen Willem
Primary Institution: VU University Medical Center
Hypothesis
Can different types of exercise training improve habitual physical activity and reduce constipation in older adults living in long-term care facilities?
Conclusion
Six months of moderate intensity exercise training neither enhances habitual physical activity nor affects complaints of constipation among older people living in long-term care facilities.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants were randomly assigned to one of four groups: resistance training, functional-skills training, both, or a control group.
- At baseline, about 22% of participants were diagnosed with constipation.
- After six months, there were no significant changes in physical activity or constipation across the groups.
Takeaway
The study looked at whether exercise could help older people in care homes be more active and less constipated, but it found that exercise didn't make a difference.
Methodology
A randomized controlled trial with 157 participants aged 64 to 94 years, assigned to different exercise training groups or a control group, with assessments at baseline and after six months.
Potential Biases
Participants may have over-reported their physical activity levels.
Limitations
The study did not control exercise intensity closely, and the assessment of constipation was based on a short questionnaire.
Participant Demographics
Participants were aged 64 to 94 years, with a mean age of 81.7 years, primarily living in residential care facilities.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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