Block strength training improves functional autonomy and quality of life in community-dwelling older women

Abstract

Introduction: Block strength training has been proposed as a useful and practical strategy to reverse the effects of aging in community-dwelling older adults. However, the effects of block strength training based on the nature of exertion on functional autonomy and life quality of older women living in the community are unknown. Objective: To determine the effects of a Block Strength Training program based on the level of effort on functional autonomy and self-perceived life quality in community-dwelling older women. Methodology: Eighteen older women (71.1 ± 8.01 years) residing in the community volunteered for the study. The study had a pre-experimental design with pre- and post-tests. The block strength training is 12 weeks and divided into three blocks of 4 weeks each. The study variables were functional autonomy, assessed with the GDLAM protocol, and self-perceived life quality, assessed with WHOQOL-BREF. Differences between pre- and post-intervention were performed using t-tests and Wilcoxon tests, both for related samples (p < 0.05). Results: After applying the 12-week block strength training, 4 of the five tests of the GDLAM protocol showed significant improvements (p < 0.05). Likewise, 2 of the four dimensions of the WHOQOL-Bref showed significant improvements (p < 0.05). Conclusions: A Block Strength Training program based on the level of effort significantly improves functional autonomy and self-perceived life quality in older women community residents. Consequently, this methodology is effective and practical for promoting healthy aging in the community.