Technology's Role on Physical Activity for Elderly People

摘要

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of two physical exercise interventions in the elderly, one with the traditional way of exercising and the other with the use of new technologies and by comparing the two interventions and evaluating the most beneficial effects in their functioning ability and their quality of life. The exercise protocols included activities to improve aerobic capacity, muscle strength, mobility (flexibility) and coordination skills (balance). Forty-four elderly women aged 60-80 years old agreed to participate, grouped by twenty-two elderly in each intervention. They evaluated at baseline (pre assessment), as well as at the end of the intervention (post assessment). Both interventions took place at Day Care Centers and lasted 10-12 weeks (min 30 sessions, 2-3 times/week, 60'). The results of this study are in line with the reports of similar studies of the last decade pertaining to the positive role of the physical exercise and the exergames to the psychological well-being and quality of life in older adults. Both interventions revealed the improvement of body functions and balance associated with daily activities, improve their physical and mental health and therefore quality of their life.