A high-intensity functional exercise program is applicable for older people with cognitive impairment

• Maintaining or improving physical functions among older people with cognitive impairment in effective ways is of great importance, since cognitive decline is associated with a decline in physical performance. Training at high intensity has a greater effect than at a lower intensity, but there are few studies evaluating high-intensity training among older people with severe cognitive impairment. However, results from a recent study (the FOPANU Study) among older people dependent in activities of daily living and living in residential care facilities showed that a high-intensity functional weigh-bearing program had positive long-term effects on balance, gait ability and lower-limb strength. The mean score for the Mini-Mental State Examination was 18 (range 10-29) and 52% of the participants had a dementia disease. Regarding the applicability of the exercise program, no statistically significant differences in attendance, intensity or adverse events were observed when participants with dementia were compared with participants without dementia. A main clinical implication of the FOPANU Study is that people with severe cognitive impairment can be offered high-intensity functional exercise programs.

Ämnesord

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Hälsovetenskap -- Sjukgymnastik (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Health Sciences -- Physiotherapy (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

Sjukgymnastik

Physiotherapy

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