PRT results in improvements to muscle strength and some aspects of functional limitation , such as gait speed , in older adults .
However , based on current data , the effect of PRT on physical disability remains unclear .
Further , due to the poor reporting of adverse events in trials , it is difficult to evaluate the risks associated with PRT
BACKGROUND The aim of this systematic review was to quantify the effectiveness of progressive resistance strength training ( PRT ) to reduce  physical disability in older people .
A randomized outcome evaluation of group exercise programs in long-term care institutions.
BACKGROUND Physical activity programs in nursing homes typically consist of seated , range of motion ( ROM ) exercises , regardless of resident abilities . The Functional Fitness for Long-Term Care ( FFLTC ) Program was design ed not only to maintain ROM , but also to improve strength , balance , flexibility , mobility , and function . In addition , it was tailored to meet the needs of both high and low mobility residents . METHODS The feasibility and efficacy of the FFLTC Program were evaluated with 68 residents ( mean age 80 ) from five institutions . Persons were classified as low or high mobility and r and omized into either the FFLTC program or a seated ROM program . Classes were conducted in groups of 4 to 10 residents by trained facility staff for 45 minutes , three times per week . Assessment s at baseline and 4 months consisted of mobility , balance , gait , flexibility , functional capacity , and several upper and lower extremity strength measures . RESULTS Attendance averaged 86 % for the FFLTC and 79 % for the ROM classes . Four months of exercise led to significant improvements in mobility ( 16 % ) , balance ( 9 % ) , flexibility ( 36 % ) , knee ( 55 % ) , and hip ( 12 % ) strength for the FFLTC group . Shoulder strength was the only improvement found for the ROM group . The ROM group significantly deteriorated in some areas , particularly hip strength , mobility , and functional ability . CONCLUSIONS Institutionalized seniors , even those who are physically frail , incontinent and /or have mild dementia , can respond positively to a challenging exercise program . The FFLTC program demonstrated clear benefits over typical , seated ROM exercises . Moreover , with minimal training , the program can be safely delivered at low cost by institutional staff and volunteers
PRT results in improvements to muscle strength and some aspects of functional limitation , such as gait speed , in older adults .
However , based on current data , the effect of PRT on physical disability remains unclear .
Further , due to the poor reporting of adverse events in trials , it is difficult to evaluate the risks associated with PRT
BACKGROUND The aim of this systematic review was to quantify the effectiveness of progressive resistance strength training ( PRT ) to reduce  physical disability in older people .