The impact of physical exercises with elements of dance movement therapy on upper limb and functional fitness of elderly wheelchair users living in nursing homes – randomized control trial

Abstract

Introduction: Over the last decades the quality of care and the quality of life of NH home resi-dents has significantly improved but low physical activity and social involvement still represent a huge challenge in modern nursing facilities. The research aims at evaluating the impact of physical exercises with elements of dance movement therapy (DMT) on the indicators related to upper limb fitness and overall functional fitness of elderly wheelchair users, as compared to standard exercise program. Method: The study participants were persons aged 68-85 who live in nursing homes and use manual wheelchair as the primary means of mobility. Persons meeting the inclusion criteria were assigned to one of the three groups: Group 1 – Basic exercises/BE group (n=55), Group 2 – Physical exercises with elements of dance movement therapy/PED group (n=55); Group 3 – No Interven-tion/CO group (n=55): control, routine care. The data were collected at the beginning of the study as well as at the 12 week and 24 week mark. Results: Prior to the start of the exercise programmes, all the groups tested were homogeneous. The most positive changes after 12 weeks of intervention were shown in the PED group: handgrip strength, manual dexterity, joint mobility, lung capacity, body flexibility, functional fitness in everyday life. The positive change with regard to the parameters tested lasted beyond 24 weeks. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that DTM appear to be effective in improving upper ex-tremity fitness and physical fitness.