Multisensory exercise programme improves cognition and functionality in institutionalized older adults: A randomized control trial

• Published in: Physiotherapy research international : the journal for researchers and clinicians in physical therapy 2018-04, Vol.23 (2), p.e1708-n/a
• Main Authors: Moreira, Natália Boneti, Gonçalves, Gabriele, Silva, Talihina, Zanardini, Francisco Ernesto Halila, Bento, Paulo Cesar Barauce
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Accidental Falls - prevention & control; Activities of Daily Living; Age Factors; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; aging; cognition; Cognitive Therapy - methods; Combined Modality Therapy; Double-Blind Method; exercise; Exercise Therapy - methods; Female; Geriatric Assessment - methods; Humans; Male; Postural Balance - physiology; Reference Values; residential care homes; Risk Assessment; Sensation Disorders - rehabilitation; Sex Factors; Skilled Nursing Facilities; Treatment Outcome
• ISSN: 1358-2267; 1471-2865
• DOI: 10.1002/pri.1708

Aim The aim of this study was to verify the effects of a multisensory exercise programme on the cognition and functionality of institutionalized older adults. Methods Forty‐five volunteers were randomly allocated to 2 groups, the multisensory exercise programme (n = 24) and the control group that received no treatment (n = 21). The programme consisted of 3 50‐min sessions of progressive exercises per week for 16 weeks that challenged their strength, balance, coordination, multisensory stimulation, and flexibility in different tasks. Cognition (Montreal Cognitive Assessment), balance (Berg Scale), mobility (Timed Up and Go), and functional performance (Physical Performance Test) were measured preintervention and postintervention. Statistical analyses were performed using Student's t test and 2‐way ANOVA. Results The multisensory exercise programme showed statistically significant improvements (p