Comparative Study Of Physical Fitness And Quality Of Life In Exercising And Non-Exercising Institutionalised Elderly

Research Article
Nisha Dhasal and Ankita Thakur
DOI: 
http://dx.doi.org/10.24327/ijrsr.2019.1005.3427
Subject: 
science
KeyWords: 
Physical fitness, Institutionalised elderly, Quality of life, Senior fitness test
Abstract: 

Introduction: Aging is a very complex process leading to decline in the body’s physiological systems and physical fitness. Change in lifestyle and bodily adaptations are expected in community dwelling and institutionalized elderly individuals because of the difference in their demands.1 This study has been undertaken to understand their Fitness and Quality of life (QOL) Methodology: A sample size of 30 institutionalized elderly included 15 exercising and nonexercising each. Physical fitness and QOL were assessed using Senior Fitness Test (SFT) and Older People’s QOL Questionnaire respectively. Results: There was a significant difference in upper body strength and flexibility (p value = 0.0418; p value = 0.0481 respectively), 2 minute step test (p value = 0.0471), QOL (p value = 0.0153) which was better in exercising group. Conclusion: The study suggests that upper body strength and flexibility, aerobic endurance and QOL are better in exercising as compared to non-exercising institutionalized elderly.