Effectiveness of Resistance Band Use in Conjunction With Tai Chi Among Older Adults With Prefrailty to Improve Functional Fitness, Quality of Life, and Heart Rate Variability.

PURPOSE: The current randomized controlled trial aimed to bolster the physical fitness of prefrail older adults, potentially delaying their need for admission to care facilities and enhancing their overall well-being.

METHOD: The experimental group received a physical fitness intervention comprising resistance band use and tai chi three times per week for 12 weeks, whereas the control group received frailty-related health education. Thirty-four male participants completed the study.

RESULTS: A total of seven items had statistically significant differences at 12- and 16-week posttest, respectively: frailty index ( p = 0.03; p = 0.03); Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale ( p < 0.001; p < 0.001); and physical fitness, back ( p < 0.001; p < 0.001); physical fitness, arm curl ( p = 0.02; p < 0.001); physical activity ( p < 0.001; p = 0.009); quality of life, physiological ( p = 0.04; p < 0.001); and heart rate variability ( p < 0.001; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: Results revealed substantial improvements in physical fitness, frailty conditions, self-care abilities, and quality of life, but not balance or lower limb flexibility, for the experimental group. Therefore, exercise interventions may effectively improve prefrail older adults' quality of life. [ Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 50 (5), 19-26.].