In modern society, life expectancy has increased, causing an increase in the number of elderly people. Aging is associated with progressive loss of neuromuscular functions and physical abilities (strength, flexibility, balance...). This can often lead to progressive disability and loss of independence. Regular physical activity can prevent or at least alleviate the effects of aging. The main aim of this Bachelor’s thesis was to determine whether the training in the outdoor park near the Retirement home Šiška improves strength, flexibility and balance.
Sixteen subjects from the Retirement home Šiška agreed to participate in this study. All participants provided their written informed consent to participate in the survey. They were divided into an experimental and a control group. Their average age was 81.50 ± 7.54 years, weight 64.63 ± 9.58 kg. Measurements that included tests of strength, balance and flexibility were conducted before and after the completed training protocol. The experimental group performed 2 sessions of strength, flexibility and balance training weekly for 7 weeks in the outdoor park Šiška.
The results of the shoulder flexibility test (fingers of left hand point up the spine) showed statistically significant improvement in flexibility of the exercise group (t=-2.52, p=0.01). The results of the flexibility sit and reach test showed statistically significant improvement in the exercise group (t=-2.68, p=0.03). Statistically significant differences in results of the knee exertion test conducted after the completed training protocol were observed between the control and exercise groups (t=-2.81, p=0.00).
Regular exercise has positive effects on the aging process. Therefore, it would be reasonable to encourage physical activity among older people in outdoor parks, as it would improve their physical abilities as well as their quality of life.
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