Restrictive ventilatory patterns (RVPs) contribute to two prevalent problems in older adults: 1) the development of pneumonia and other lower respiratory infections; and 2) declining endurance for physical activity. The Breathing Room was developed as an exercise activity designed to open the thoracic cage, increase strength of the muscles of respiration with inspiratory muscle trainers, and optimize the breathing technique.~This will be a pretest-posttest design in which the outcomes are measured at baseline, and at two weeks and four weeks post start of Breathing Room intervention. Breathing Room classes will be held 3 times a week for 4 weeks (2 group classes, 1 individual reinforcement of Inspiratory Muscle Training [IMT] homework). The IMT homework includes 3 days 5 cycles of 5 breaths, each cycle followed by 2-minute rest. The IMT will be also utilized during the 2 group classes.~The group classes will be conducted with a maximum of 5 participants in each group. Data on inspiratory muscle strength, spirometry confirmed ventilatory function (Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1), Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and FEV1/FVC), functional status, posture, and physical activity will be collected. Infection rate data for each resident for 4 months following completion of Breathing Room will be also collected.
This proposed study will evaluate whether a novel nonpharmacological intervention, Breathing Room, can improve lung function in the target population of older adults. Therefore, the primary aim of this pilot is to examine the effect of Breathing Room on inspiratory muscle strength, spirometry confirmed ventilatory function (Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1), Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and FEV1/FVC), functional status, posture, physical activity, and lower respiratory infection rates.