The impact of regular physical activity and verbal stimulation on functional efficiency and the ways elderly people spend their free time under institutional care – a randomized controlled study.

INTERVENTION: The subjects will be recruited from nursing homes for the elderly. The subjects will be assigned at random to one of four groups: Arm 1: basic exercises combined with verbal stimulation. Arm 2: basic exercises without verbal stimulation. Arm 3: functional exercises training with verbal stimulation. Arm 4: functional exercises training without verbal stimulation. Study I – preliminary tests. Study II – after the end of intervention. Study III – 12 weeks after the end of intervention. Study IV – 24 weeks after the end of intervention. The exercise programme: Basic exercises: The programme includes exercises performed in a sitting position containing elements of aerobic, stretching and equivalent exercise. Functional exercises programme: Training will be divided into two sessions: Session I: strengthening and stretching training – exercises performed in a sitting position using a Thera‐Band and gymnastic sticks. Session II: equivalent and functional training – exercises performed in a seated and standing position with use of chairs as aids to stabilize position, and containing complex movements which older people perform in everyday activity. Frequency of training: twice a week for 30 minutes. Intensity of effort on the Borg scale: 11–13 points. Before and after each workout, blood pressure is taken and heart rate is noted. The exercises will be held in groups of four to eight in a nursing home, and will be conducted by a qualified physiotherapist. Verbal stimulation: this is assumed to enhance the motivation of elderly people to undertake physical activity. Participants will be motivated by presenting the exercise strategy and objectives and by asking about the subjective possibilities of physical exertion and achieving particular goals. CONDITION: Health Problems PRIMARY OUTCOME: 1. Timed Up‐and‐Go Test, 10‐Metre‐Walk Test; 2.Back Scratch, Chair Sit and Reach. ; 3. Berg Balance Scale; 4. Physical Activity Scale for Elderly SECONDARY OUTCOME: 1. Grip strength (JAMAR+) ; 2. Short Physical Performance Battery INCLUSION CRITERIA: 1. Residents of nursing homes for the elderly and people with chronic illness. 2. Aged 65–85. 3. MMSE >19. 4. GDS < 20 pkt. 5. Spending free time sitting at least four hours a day / six to seven days a week.