Abstract

Comparison of Functional Tasks Exercise Versus Resistance Exercise to Improve Grip Strength and Hand Function in Elderly Population

Background: Ageing is an irreversible process; the effects of a sedentary lifestyle are very evident in most people due to inactivity. When physical capacity falls below the ability required for the performance of daily tasks, functional limitations and a loss of independence may occur. The aim of the study is to determine whether functional tasks exercise program and resistance exercise program have different effects on grip strength hand function in the community-living elderly population. Study design was Quasi-experimental. Methods: This experimental study was conducted on 30 male and female patients (aged above 60 years) without any severe illness. 30 subjects were divided into 2 groups, Group A was taught functional tasks exercise and Group B was taught resistance exercise for both hands, three days per week for total of 4 weeks. For the outcome measures, grip strength was measured using handheld dynamometer and hand function using Michigan hand outcome questionnaire. Findings: There is a statistical significance on comparison of pre and post mean values of functional tasks exercise group on grip strength measurements of both hands (Right p<0.05, Left p<0.05) and 3 components of Michigan hand outcome questionnaire (OAHF: over all hand function (p<0.05), ADL: activity of daily living (p<0.05) and work (p<0.05). The comparison of pre and post mean values of resistance exercise group also shows statistically significant effect on grip strength measurements of both hands (Right p<0.05, Left p<0.05) and 4 components of Michigan hand outcome measure questionnaire (OAHF: over all hand function (p<0.05), ADL: activity of daily living (p<0.05), work (p<0.05) and satisfaction (p<0.05). But there is no statistical significance on comparing the posttest mean values of hand grip strength and Michigan Hand Outcome measure Questionnaire between both the functional tasks exercise (Group A) and resistance exercises (Group B). Conclusion: There is no statistically significant difference between functional tasks exercise and resistance exercise in improving the grip strength and hand function in elderly population.


Author(s): Anandhi D*, Gokila D and Sivakumar VPR

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