Psychological and physical effects of light-intensity group exercise for community-dwelling older adults

Introduction: The Adapted Physical Activity over 65 Program, initiated by the Sport Center of Bergamo University, offers 60 minutes of Community-Based Structured Physical Activity twice a week for older adults across 68 municipalities in Bergamo city and surroundings. Objective: This study aims to 1) measure the program adherence, 2) characterize the physical activity and psychological well-being of the active older adult population, 3) explore the correlation between adherence and program’s intensity, cognitive, affective, and motor domains, and 4) analyze the pre and post effects of the program. Methods: About 250 older adults are eligible to participate. A physical and psychological evaluation is programmed at the beginning (T0) and after the 17-week training (T1). For physical assessment tests are: Two-minute step, Timed Get Up and Go, 5 times-to-stand, gait speed, balance tests (Side-by-Side, Semi-Tandem and Tandem Stand) 30s arm curl and handgrip dynamometry; For psychological assessment: Frontal Assessment Battery, WAIS Digit Span, Geriatric Depression Scale and WHOQOL-BRIEF. Anticipated results: A total of 160 older adults (mean age 74.5 years) have volunteered so far, exhibiting fairly good motor and psychological health at T0. At the end of the program (T1), we expect a minimal drop-out rates due to the light-intensity protocol, foreseeing an overall improvement in motor function and its association with enhanced psychological well-being. Implications: This study will expose the significance of this Community-Based Structured Physical Activity project in promoting not only physical health but also cognitive one among older adults, providing crucial data for expanding it as public health initiative.