Effects of resistance training associated with a verbal fluency task on physical performance and cognitive function in frail nursing home residents

Objectives: Studies examining the effects of dual-task resistance training (RT) on nursing-home residents are still scarce. To add knowledge to this field, the present study compared the effects of 12-week RT and RT plus cognitive task (COG) programs on physical performance and cognitive function in a sample of frail nursing home residents. Methods: This is an experimental study that combined data from two studies that examined older adults living in nursing home residences in Brazil. Exercise groups performed a 12-week RT protocol that included four exercises, with 3-4 times (sets) of 8-10 repetitions at 70 %-75 % of 1-repetition maximum (1RM), twice a week. The RT+COG group evoked as many words was possible for specific categories during concentric actions of the squat on the chair (until 90 degrees knee flexion) and seated unilateral knee extension exercises. Global cognitive function and physical performance were evaluated using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) tests, respectively. Results: After interventions, participants in the RT+COG and RT groups had significantly greater lower-limb muscle strength compared with the control group (CG). Those in the RT+COG group had greater tandem performance in comparison to RT and CG groups. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that RT preserves lower-limb muscle strength in frail nursing home residents, regardless of performance of cognitive tasks. Better balance was exclusively observed in the RT+COG, whereas significant improvements in mobility status were only found in the RT group. The present investigation was based on a small sample of nursing home residents. Larger and more structured studies are necessary to confirm our results.