Citation

Sakurai R, Fujiwara Y, Kim H, Saito K, Yasunaga M, Nonaka K, Kobayashi K, Ogawa K, Yoshida H, Tanaka C, Uchida H, Suzuki K, Watanabe S, Shinkai S. Nippon Ronen Igakkai Zasshi 2011; 48(4): 352-360.

Affiliation

Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Japan Geriatrics Society)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

21996634

Abstract

Aim: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a comprehensive intervention program named SPRING, which utilizes a hot spring facility, in community-dwelling older adults in a randomized controlled trial. Methods: A total of 60 community-dwelling elderly people (mean age, 72.7±6.0 years) participated in this program. After baseline investigation, participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n=31) or a control group (n=29). The intervention group participated in a comprehensive intervention program (including exercise classes, nutrition classes and bathing) twice a week for 3 months. After 3 months and 6 months, we evaluated the effects of the intervention. Results: The attendance rate of the intervention group was 76%, and there were no accidents or injuries associated with this program. After 3 months, grip strength and one-leg standing with eyes-open scores significantly improved among the intervention group, compared with the control group (p=0.028; p=0.003, respectively). On follow-up, grip strength, one-leg standing with eyes-open scores and the World Health Organization Well-Being Index (WHO-5) scores were statistically significantly maintained or had improved in the intervention group (p=0.001; p=0.024; p=0.027, respectively). Conclusion: The comprehensive intervention program SPRING may improve physical function among community-dwelling older adults. In addition, SPRING may have long-term beneficial effects for older adults.

Language: en