Effectiveness of Ten Weeks Community-Based Multicomponent Exercise Program on Physiological Health of Elderly Women

Abstract

Background: The advancement of technology and medical science has prolonged the longevity of humans, compelling each individual to deal with old age. New health issues are cropping up, especially since lifestyle has become sedentary. Regular physical exercises are the only option for healthy aging. Purpose: The study observed the effect of 10 weeks planned community-based multicomponent exercise program (CBMCEP) on selected physiological variables of elderly women in the Indian sub-urban area. Methodology: A quasi-experimental investigation was carried out in 2019 with 30 sedentary women volunteer of 55-65 years from the middle socio-economic class who were purposively assigned into experimental group (n=15) and control group (n=15). The experimental group was given 10 weeks- 4 days/week of CBMCEP in a progressive manner that included brisk walking, resistance exercise, balance, flexibility exercise and recreational activities of 80-90 minutes duration. The control group was not exposed to such a program. Pre and post-test were conducted on physiological variables like Resting Heart Rate (RHR), Resting blood pressure (Systolic- SDP; Diastolic- DBP), Postprandial Blood Sugar level (BSpp), and Haemoglobin concentration (Hb) by the registered medical practitioner. The obtained data were statistically analyzed by independent t-test for baseline differences between the groups and paired sample t-test to obtain the CBMCEP effect on dependent variables. Result: Statistical analysis revealed 10 weeks of CBMCEP can significantly reduce the RHR (p=0.003), SBP (p=0.039), DBP (p=0.052), BSpp level (p=0.015), and Hb concentration (p=0.009). Conclusion: The CBMCEP can promote significant improvement in the physiological health of elderly women. Further, it was noted that fitness experts may implement such cost-effective CBMCEP to ensure the healthy aging of a nation.