Elastic Band Exercises Improved Activities of Daily Living and Functional Fitness of Wheelchair-bound Older Adults with Cognitive Impairment: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective The purpose of this study was to test the effects of a 6-month Wheelchair-bound Senior Elastic Band (WSEB) exercise program on the activities of daily living (ADL) and functional fitness of wheelchair-bound older adults with cognitive impairment. Design Cluster randomized controlled trial was used. A convenience sample of 138 wheelchair-bound older adults with cognitive impairment were recruited from 8 nursing homes in southern Taiwan and were randomly assigned based on the nursing homes they lived to the experimental (4 nursing homes; n = 73) or the control group (4 nursing homes; n = 65). The experimental group performed WSEB exercises 3 times per week and 40 minutes per session for 6 months. The ADL and functional fitness (cardiopulmonary function, body flexibility, range of joint motion, and muscle strength and endurance) were examined at baseline, 3 months, and the end of 6-month study. Results The ADL and functional fitness indicators of participants in the experimental group showed significant improvements compared to the control group (all P < 0.05). Conclusions The WSEB exercises have positive benefits for the ADL and functional fitness of wheelchair-bound older adults with cognitive impairment. It is suggested that WSEB exercises be included as a routine activity in nursing homes. To Claim CME Credits: Complete the self-assessment activity and evaluation online at http://www.physiatry.org/JournalCME CME Objectives: Upon completion of this article the reader should be able to: (1) Understand the risk factors for functional decline in older adults with dementia; (2) Articulate the benefits of structured activities and exercises in the older adult with dementia; and (3) Incorporate elastic band exercises into the treatment plan of wheelchair bound older adults with dementia. Level: Advanced Accreditation: The Association of Academic Physiatrists is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians. The Association of Academic Physiatrists designates this activity for a maximum of 1.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s). Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.