Abstract
Background
For older adults, hospitalization frequently results in deterioration of mobility and function.
Nevertheless, there are little data about how older adults exercise in the hospital and definitive studies
are not yet available to determine what type of physical activity will prevent hospital related decline.
Strengthening exercise may prevent deconditioning and Pilates exercise, which focuses on proper
body mechanics and posture, may promote safety.
Methods
A hospital-based resistance exercise program, which incorporates principles of resistance training and
Pilates exercise, was developed and administered to intervention subjects to determine whether
acutely-ill older patients can perform resistance exercise while in the hospital. Exercises were designed
to be reproducible and easily performed in bed. The primary outcome measures were adherence and
participation.
Results
Thirty-nine ill patients, recently admitted to an acute care hospital, who were over age 70 [mean age of
82.0 (SD= 7.3)] and ambulatory prior to admission, were randomized to the resistance exercise group
(19) or passive range of motion (ROM) group (20). For the resistance exercise group, participation was
71% (p = 0.004) and adherence was 63% (p = 0.020). Participation and adherence for ROM exercises
was 96% and 95%, respectively.
Conclusion
Using a standardized and simple exercise regimen, selected, ill, older adults in the hospital are able to
comply with resistance exercise. Further studies are needed to determine if resistance exercise can
prevent or treat hospital-related deterioration in mobility and function.
Keywords: exercise, resistance, strengthening, deconditioning, geriatrics
