Citation

Vieira ER, Tappen R, Gropper SS, Severi MT, Engström G, de Oliveira MR, Barbosa AC, da Silva RA. J. Aging Phys. Act. 2017; 25(4): 525-532.

Affiliation

Department of Physical Therapy - North Parana University, Brazil.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Human Kinetics Publishers)

DOI

10.1123/japa.2016-0231

PMID

28095084

Abstract

The objective of this pilot study was to evaluate a 6-month exercise program completed by 10 older Caribbean Americans. Assessments were done at baseline, 3 and 6 months and included walks on an instrumented mat at preferred speed, and during street crossing simulations with regular (10s) and with reduced time (5s). There were no significant differences on preferred walking speed overtime. Differences between the street crossing conditions were found only at 6 months. Significant changes overtime among the assessments were found only during street crossing with reduced time. Street crossing with reduced time was the only walking condition sensitive to capture changes associated with participating in the exercise program. There was a significant increase in dorsiflexion strength overtime. At 6 months it was significantly higher than at baseline and 3 months. The program was feasible, acceptable, and had some positive effects on walking, knee flexion, and dorsiflexion strength.

Language: en

Keywords

Caribbeans; exercise; gait; intervention; older adults; strength