Julie Chandler|Pamela W. Duncan|Gary Kochersberger|Stephanie A. Studenski
Is lower extremity strength gain associated with improvement in physical performance and disability in frail, community-dwelling elders?
United States Military Academy|University of Kansas Medical Center|University of Kansas|Canandaigua VA Medical Center|University of Rochester|University of Kansas Medical Center
background strength loss strongly associated functional decline reversible exercise effect increased strength function clearly established purpose study determine whether strength gain associated improvement physical performance disability methods one hundred functionally impaired communitydwelling men women 776 76yrs tested baseline outcome lower extremity strength physical performance disability random group assignment exercise participants received strengthening exercises homes three times week 10 weeks control subjects continued normal activities using multiple regression techniques relationship strength gain improvement physical performance disability assessed controlling age depression baseline strength results significant impact strength gain mobility skills p 0009 found impact strength gain chair rise performance significant participants impaired p 04 strength gain associated gain gait speed p 02 falls efficacy p 05 balance endurance disability measures conclusions lower extremity strength gain associated gains chair rise performance gait speed mobility tasks gait transfers stooping stair climbing improved endurance balance disability strength gain also associated improvement confidence mobility factors may influence ability strength gain affect function initial level frailty specificity exercise results support idea strength training intervention potentially improve physical health status many frail elders