bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Bar Release in Triple Somersault Dismounts
Authors: Kerwin David G. , Yeadon Maurice R. , Harwood Michael J.
Published: August 2016

The release from the high bar was analyzed for six performances of triple backward somersaults. All 6 gymnasts released the bar with their mass centers below the level of the bar. The mean horizontal velocity of the mass center away from the bar was 1.2 m · s−1. This horizontal velocity was partitioned into contributions from the tangential and radial motions of the mass center relative to the bar and the movement of the bar relative to its neutral position. It was found that the tangential motion was the major contributor although the radial motion produced substantial positive contributions and the bar movement gave large negative contributions in two cases.
Use of Ground Reaction Force Parameters in Predicting Peak Tibial Accelerations in Running
Authors: Hennig Ewald M. , Milani Thomas L. , Lafortune Mario A.
Published: August 2016

Ground reaction force data and tibial accelerations from a skin-mounted transducer were collected during rearfoot running at 3.3 m/s across a force platform. Five repetitive trials from 27 subjects in each of 19 different footwear conditions were evaluated. Ground reaction force as well as tibial acceleration parameters were found to be useful for the evaluation of the cushioning properties of different athletic footwear. The good prediction of tibial accelerations by the maximum vertical force rate toward the initial force peak (r2= .95) suggests that the use of a force platform is sufficient for the estimation of shock-absorbing properties of sport shoes. If an even higher prediction accuracy is required a regression equation with two variables (maximum force rate, median power frequency) may be used (r2= .97). To evaluate the influence of footwear on the shock traveling through the body, a good prediction of peak tibial accelerations can be achieved from force platform measurements.
A New Method of Measuring 3-D Ground Reaction Forces under the Ski during Skiing on Snow
Authors: Leppävuori Antti P. , Karras Matti , Rusko Heikki , Viitasaio Jukka T.
Published: August 2016

A new method was developed for measuring the distribution of real time ground reaction forces under the snow ski. A platform composed of 20 separate beams was buried in snow under the ski track. Vertical, cross horizontal, and longitudinal horizontal force components were measured with strain gauge bridges separately on each beam, and the results were recorded with a data logger at 90 Hz. The test results for two types of skating skis are described. Anomalous behavior was observed in horizontal force components, where negative force values were recorded on some sections of the ski at the end of the initial kick phase. This suggests that some parts of the ski edge pushed in the opposite direction from the kicking force. This is interpreted to be due to a sharp bending along the bottom edge of the ski. It is concluded that the method could be used to measure 3-D dynamic forces under snow.
Physical Activity and Depression in the Elderly
Authors: O’Connor Patrick J. , Aenchbacher Louis E. , Dishman Rod K.
Published: August 2016

Exercise is often recommended to elderly persons for enhancing both physical and mental health. This paper reviews the scientific evidence relating physical activity and reduced depression in the elderly. Population based studies and experimental investigations are summarized and critically evaluated. Included is a discussion of some unique challenges that must be met in order for the relationship between depression and physical activity in the elderly to be adequately studied. The weight of the available population based survey evidence, on noninstitutionalized elderly only, suggests a moderate relationship between self-reported physical inactivity and symptoms of depression. However, there is no compelling experimental evidence that exercise per se is effective in preventing or treating depressive disorders in the elderly. Suggestions aimed at improving future research in this area are offered.
Physical Activity and Dimensions of Subjective Well-Being in Older Adults
Authors: Stathi Aphrodite , Fox Kenneth R. , McKenna James
Published: August 2016

Using a qualitative approach, the dimensions of subjective well-being of active older adults were outlined and ways identified through which they might be influenced by participation in physical activities. One-to-one and group interviews were used to collect the data. Using cross-case analysis, 17 main themes were identified. The following main dimensions emerged: developmental, material, physical, mental, and social well-being. The findings indicated that physical activity influences all dimensions of the subjective well-being of older adults, with the exception of material well-being. Physical activity appears to contribute to the mental health of older adults through maintenance of a busy and active life, mental alertness, positive attitude toward life and avoidance of stress, negative function, and isolation. The complexity of subjective well-being and the multiple roles of physical activity stress the need to extend qualitative research to sedentary older adults and the institutionalized elderly to explore the relationship between well-being and physical activity in later life.
Screening for Falls in Community-Dwelling Elderly
Authors: Murphy Mary A. , Olson Sharon L. , Protas Elizabeth J. , Overby Averell R.
Published: August 2016

Fifty community-dwelling elders were screened and followed for 14 months. Sixteen experienced falls and 34 did not. The screening variables consisted of age, the Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction in Balance, the Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment for Balance, functional reach, the Physical Performance Test, and the following timed tests: floor transfer; 5-step test; 5 chair stands; tandem, semitandem, and side-by-side stance; penny pick-up; 360° turn; 50-ft walk; and 5-min walk. Data analysis and chi-squared or t tests were performed for each variable to determine significant differences between groups. Correlations, sensitivity, and specificity were calculated, and a stepwise discriminant analysis was conducted to determine which significant variables best predicted falls. Discriminant analysis determined that the floor transfer and then the 50-ft walk predicted falls in community-dwelling elders, correctly classifying 95.5% of participants. Prediction for falls was 81.8%, and for no falls, 100%. The timed floor transfer and 50-ft walk were the most discriminating measures to identify potential fallers.
The Association of Physical-Performance Level with Attitude Toward Exercise in Older Adults
Authors: Chang Milan , Leveille Suzanne , Cohen-Mansfield Jiska , Guralnik Jack M.
Published: August 2016

The Hebrew Home Study of Impairment and Exercise is a cross-sectional community-based study of nondisabled adults age 75–85 years that assessed attitude toward exercise by asking level of agreement with four statements evaluating participants’ perceptions of the health benefits and personal rewards of exercise. A physical-performance battery evaluated lower extremity function on a scale of 0 to 12. Attitude toward exercise was compared across 4 groups: non-vigorous exercisers with scores of 4–6 (n = 21), 7–9 (n = 90), or 10–12 (n = 113) and vigorous exercisers (n = 71). Vigorous exercisers had a significantly better attitude toward exercise than the reference group did, with odds ratios of 1.8-5.5 in all attitude statements. The lowest and moderate-performance groups had less positive attitudes toward exercise than the reference group did, with odds ratios of 0.27–0.62 for all statements. There was a highly significant gradient with better attitude toward exercise and higher functional-status level. Future work in improving older adults’ compliance with exercise should take into account the less positive attitude of those with functional limitations toward the benefits of exercise.
Strategic Priorities for Increasing Physical Activity among Adults Age 50 and Older: The National Blueprint Consensus Conference Summary Report
Authors: Sheppard Lisa , Senior Jane , Park Chae Hee , Mockenhaupt Robin , Chodzko-Zajko Wojtek
Published: August 2016

At the National Blueprint Consensus Conference in October 2002, representatives of more than 50 national organizations convened to identify strategies to advance the National Blueprint: Increasing Physical Activity Among Adults Age 50 and Older. Participants were assigned to 5 breakout groups—home and community, marketing, medical systems, public policy, and research—each charged with identifying the 3 highest priority strategies in its area for effectively increasing physical activity in the midlife and older adult population. In addition, 3 “cross cutting” strategies were added, which were broad-based in scope and that applied to more than 1 of the breakout themes. An organization was identified to plan and implement each strategy. The conference identified strategies and tactics to overcome societal barriers to physical activity among the targeted population. An organization was identified to plan and implement each of the 18 strategies using professional networks and established delivery channels and communication systems to translate this plan into action.
The Effects of Life Events and Interpersonal Loss on Exercise Adherence in Older Adults
Authors: Wilcox Sara , King Abby C.
Published: August 2016

Associations of life events and interpersonal loss with participation in home-and group-based exercise were studied in 97 older adults (64% women, 70.2 ± 4.1 years). Life events were assessed with a modified Social Readjustment Rating Scale at baseline and 6 and 12 months. Exercise logs and class-attendance records documented exercise participation. Participants experienced 3.62 ± 3.56 unique life events over the course of the study, and 28 participants reported an interpersonal loss (5 men, 23 women). Number of life events was negatively associated with home-based exercise participation (p < .05); among women, this association approached significance (p = .06) for class-based exercise. Women who experienced an interpersonal loss had lower class-based participation than those who did not (p = .02), but home-based participation rates were unaffected. Life events, particularly interpersonal loss, appear to have a negative impact on exercise in women, and this effect appears greater for class-based than for home-based exercise.
The Effects of a Topical Analgesic and Placebo in Treatment of Chronic Knee Pain
Authors: Myrer J. William , Feland J. Brent , Fellingham Gilbert W.
Published: August 2016

Chronic knee pain is a prevalent health problem of old and middle age. The authors’ objective was to determine whether a topical analgesic would reduce knee pain and improve the function of a group of 40- to 65-year-old people with chronic knee pain. The experimental design was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. The dependent variables were knee pain, active range of motion, and isometric strength. Forty-six men and women volunteered, of whom 3 dropped out, leaving 23 in the treatment group and 20 in the placebo group. Knee pain was assessed with a visual analogue scale and the knee-pain scale for frequency and severity. Testing took place before treatment and after 21 and 35 days of treatment. The results indicated that although both groups experienced improved pain scores, there were no differences between groups over the treatment period for any of the dependent variables.
Leadership in Physical Activity Groups for Older Adults: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Estabrooks Paul A. , Munroe Krista J. , Fox Elizabeth H. , Gyurcsik Nancy C. , Hill Jennie L. , Lyon Robert , Rosenkranz Sara , Shannon Vanessa R.
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study was to determine whether a theory-based framework could be used to deductively identify and understand the characteristics of motivational leaders of physical activity groups for older adults. Participants were 23 older adults (mean age = 78.5 ± 8.0 years, 65% women). An interview-guide approach was employed to elicit older adults’ thoughts on important characteristics of physical activity group leaders. The data suggested that effective leaders are those whom the participants feel are properly qualified, are able to develop a personal bond with participants, and can use their knowledge and the group to demonstrate collective accomplishments. It was concluded that the findings could be used to extend the leadership activities beyond the traditional technical performance and individual feedback to include activities of social integration. Furthermore, the conceptual framework identified can serve as a valuable tool in guiding future researchers in their examination of leadership in physical activity groups for older adults.
Effects of Multicomponent Training on Functional Fitness in Older Adults
Authors: Toraman N. Füsun , Erman Alparslan , Agyar Evren
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a 9-week supervised multicomponent exercise program on functional fitness and body composition in independent older adults. Forty-two adults age 60–86 years were randomly assigned to an exercise or a control group and were evaluated before and after training. The training program consisted of 3 sessions of walking, strengthening, and flexibility exercises per week. The multicomponent training program resulted in significant (p < .005) improvements on the chair stand, arm curl, 6-min walk, and up-and-go tests. The findings of this study indicate that a 9-week training program increased upper and lower body strength, aerobic endurance, and agility/dynamic balance in older adults. The most affected components of functional fitness were lower body strength and aerobic endurance. There was no effect of the 9-week training on body composition.
Exercise Intervention Designed to Improve Strength and Dynamic Balance among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: DiBrezzo Ro , Shadden Barbara B. , Raybon Blake H. , Powers Melissa
Published: August 2016

Loss of balance and falling are critical concerns for older adults. Physical activity can improve balance and decrease the risk of falling. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a simple, low-cost exercise program for community-dwelling older adults. Sixteen senior adults were evaluated using the Senior Fitness Test for measures of functional strength, aerobic endurance, dynamic balance and agility, and flexibility. In addition, measures of height, weight, resting blood pressure, blood lipids, and cognitive function were obtained. Participants then attended a 10-week exercise class including stretching, strengthening, and balance-training exercises. At the completion of the program, significant improvements were observed in tests measuring dynamic balance and agility, lower and upper extremity strength, and upper extremity flexibility. The results indicate that exercise programs such as this are an effective, low-cost solution to improving health and factors that affect falling risk among older adults.
Physical Activity and Fitness among Midlife and Older Rural Women
Authors: Hageman Patricia A. , Walker Susan Noble , Pullen Carol H. , Boeckner Linda S. , Oberdorfer Maureen K.
Published: August 2016

This study investigated physical activity and fitness of midlife and older rural women. Random-digit dialing was used to recruit 225 women (57.9 ± 5.6 years old). Self-reported activity (moderate activity, flexibility, and strength) and fitness (body composition, flexibility, strength, and estimated VO2max) were assessed. The women demonstrated low daily energy expenditure (30.74 ± 10.63 kcal · kg−1 · day−1) and estimated VO2max (20.12 ± 7.81 ml · kg−1 · min−1), with 51.5% reporting fair or poor health. Few women reported meeting Healthy People 2010 targets for moderate activity (43.1%), flexibility (28.9%), or strength (14.2%). When classified by estimated VO2max into three categories, differences were observed for body-mass index, percent body fat, sit and reach, and timed chair stands, with the poorest performance by those with low cardiorespiratory fitness. Adherence to Healthy People 2010 targets for moderate activity and strengthening was associated with higher cardiorespiratory fitness. These rural women are targets for physical activity interventions because of their sedentary behaviors and low cardiorespiratory fitness.
Development of a Lateral Mobility Task to Identify Individuals at Risk for Mobility Disability and Functional Decline
Authors: Marsh Anthony P. , Rejeski W. Jack , Hutton Stacy L. , Brown Cristal L. , Ip Edward , Guralnik Jack M.
Published: August 2016

Lateral mobility is integral to many activities of daily living involving transfer from one position to another. The objective of this study was to develop and evaluate the validity and test–retest reliability of a lateral-mobility (LATMOB) task for older adults. Measurements of lateral mobility, balance, and strength and self-reported and performance-based physical functioning were obtained in 63 women and 77 men ≥50 years of age. The LATMOB task was significantly correlated with age, knee-extensor strength, grip strength, functional reach, and one-leg-stance time. Test–retest reliability of the task was excellent. The LATMOB task was highly correlated with the car task. Balance was significantly correlated with time to get into and out of a car and performance on the LATMOB task. The LATMOB task was significantly correlated with the Short Physical Performance Battery score. The LATMOB task is valid and reliable, but additional work is needed to assess its sensitivity to change and predictive validity.
The Effect of a Novel ADL-Based Training Program on Performance of Activities of Daily Living and Physical Fitness
Authors: Dobek Jessica C. , White Karen N. , Gunter Katherine B.
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study was to determine the degree to which a novel training program based on activities of daily living (ADL) would affect performance of ADLs, as well as the fitness of older adults. Fourteen individuals (mean age 82 years) took part in a 10-week control period followed by a 10-week ADL-based training program. Pre- and posttests included the Physical Performance Test (PPT), the Physical Functional Performance–10 (PFP-10), and the Senior Fitness Test (SFT). After the training period, improvements ranging from 7% to 33% (p < .05) were seen on the PPT and PFP-10 and on three items of the SFT. After conversion to standard scores, the magnitude of change in the PPT and the PFP-10 was significantly greater (p < .05) than the magnitude of change in the SFT. These data support the idea that this novel ADL-based training program was able to facilitate improved performance of ADLs, as well as select measures of fitness among older adults.
Combination Training and Resistance Training as Effective Interventions to Improve Functioning in Elders
Authors: Fahlman Mariane , Morgan Amy , McNevin Nancy , Topp Robert , Boardley Debra
Published: August 2016

The purpose of the study was to determine whether resistance training (RT) or a combination of resistance and aerobic training (CT) resulted in the most improvement in measures of functional ability in functionally limited elders. Elderly adults who exhibited some limits in functional ability were randomly assigned to either a CT, RT, or control (C) group. Both RT and CT exercised three times per week for 16 weeks. At Weeks 0 and 17, participants completed six measures of strength and six functional tests. A 3 (group) × 3 (time) ANOVA with repeated measures on the time factor was used to analyze the results. CT and RT scored significantly better than C at Week 17 for biceps curl, elbow extension, chair stand, and time up the stairs. These findings demonstrate that RT and CT are both effective at increasing measures of strength and functional ability in elderly adults who begin exercise with functional limitations.
Operationalizing Environmental Indicators for Physical Activity in Older Adults
Authors: Strath Scott , Isaacs Raymond , Greenwald Michael J.
Published: August 2016

This qualitative study describes environmental supports and barriers to physical activity in an older adult sample drawn from low- and high-walkable neighborhoods. Thirty-seven individuals age 55 and over were recruited and answered open-ended survey questions, with a subsample invited back to partake in a semistructured interview. Content analysis identified categories and themes linking perceptions of neighborhood-environment characteristics to activity. Emerging categories and themes did not differ across neighborhood walkability, so results are presented for both groups combined. Infrastructure was the most common category identified to encourage activity, specifically, well-maintained sidewalks, bike paths or lanes, and traffic control. Other categories of land use, landscape, and aesthetics were reported. Poorly maintained or missing sidewalks, crosswalks, bike paths or lanes, and traffic safety were categories that discouraged activity. In conclusion, the information obtained is helpful in solidifying which environmental characteristics are important to measure as they relate to activity behavior in an older adult population.
Hand Force of Men and Women Over 65 Years of Age as Measured by Maximum Pinch and Grip Force
Authors: Jansen Caroline W. Stegink , Niebuhr Bruce R. , Coussirat Daniel J. , Hawthorne Dana , Moreno Laura , Phillip Melissa
Published: August 2016

This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the impact of age and gender on 4 measures of grip and pinch force of well elderly community dwellers and to provide normative values. The hypotheses were that age and gender affect pinch and grip force and that these 2 factors might interact. Hand strength of 224 seniors 65–92 years old was tested. Grip and pinch force decreased in successively older age groups past 65 years. Men’s grip force exceeded that of women in all age groups. Men’s hand-force decline was steeper than that of women over successive age groups, suggesting that gender differences in force decreased with age. Trends were the same for all 4 types of grip- and pinch-force measurement but were most clearly visible in grip and key-pinch force. Norms were provided for seniors age 65–85+ years in 5-yr increments.
The Effect of Aging on Skeletal-Muscle Recovery from Exercise: Possible Implications for Aging Athletes
Authors: Fell James , Williams Andrew Dafydd
Published: August 2016

Recovery from exercise is integral to the physical training process. There is a perception among older athletes that aging negatively affects the recovery process. Plausible arguments for an impaired recovery with aging are a greater susceptibility of older muscle to exercise-induced skeletal-muscle damage and a slower repair and adaptation response. Differences in the physical activity level of the research participants are rarely considered, however. This makes it difficult to differentiate the respective roles of declining physical activity and aging on the recovery process. Furthermore, the type of exercise used to induce damage and monitor recovery is often not indicative of a normal training stimulus for athletes. This review discusses the effects of aging on skeletal-muscle damage and recovery processes and highlights the limitations of many of these studies with respect to older athletes. Future research should use an exercise intervention representative of a normal training stimulus and take the physical activity level of the participants into account.
Biomechanical Analysis of Older Adults Stepping Up: A Method of Evaluating Balance
Authors: Michel-Pellegrino Valérie , Hewson David , Hogrel Jean-Yves , Duchêne Jacques
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study was to analyze differences in biomechanical parameters between elderly and control participants when stepping up, to evaluate control of balance. Eleven control and 14 elderly participants performed a step from an initial static posture onto a 7-cm-high force plate. For the spontaneous-velocity condition, elderly participants performed a slower progression velocity than control participants. Elderly participants spent proportionally more time in stance phase, with a corresponding decrease in swing phase, than the control participants, irrespective of movement velocity. In contrast, at spontaneous velocity the parameters related to ground-reaction force (GRF) showed that anteroposterior and mediolateral forces at toe-off of the support limb and the slope of vertical force during weight transfer were significantly smaller for the elderly than for control participants. These GRF parameters depended on the stepping-up velocity. The elderly develop a spatiotemporal strategy and reduced movement velocity to control support balance.
Why Don’t You Exercise? Development of the Amotivation Toward Exercise Scale among Older Inactive Individuals
Authors: Vlachopoulos Symeon P. , Gigoudi Maria A.
Published: August 2016

This article reports on the development and initial validation of the Amotivation Toward Exercise Scale (ATES), which reflects a taxonomy of older adults’ reasons to refrain from exercise. Drawing on work by Pelletier, Dion, Tuson, and Green-Demers (1999) and Legault, Green-Demers, and Pelletier (2006), these dimensions were the outcome beliefs, capacity beliefs, effort beliefs, and value amotivation beliefs toward exercise. The results supported a 4-factor correlated model that fit the data better than either a unidimensional model or a 4-factor uncorrelated model or a hierarchical model with strong internal reliability for all the subscales. Evidence also emerged for the discriminant validity of the subscale scores. Furthermore, the predictive validity of the subscale scores was supported, and satisfactory measurement invariance was demonstrated across the calibration and validation samples, supporting the generalizability of the scale’s measurement properties.
A Comparison of the Effects of Different Water Exercise Programs on Balance Ability in Elderly People
Authors: Kaneda Koichi , Sato Daisuke , Wakabayashi Hitoshi , Hanai Atsuko , Nomura Takeo
Published: August 2016

This study compared the effects of 2 types of water exercise programs on balance ability in the elderly. Thirty healthy elderly persons (60.7 ± 4.1 yr) were randomly assigned to a deep-water-running exercise (DWRE, n = 15) group or a normal water exercise (NWE, n = 15) group. The participants completed a twice-weekly water exercise intervention for 12 wk. Exercise sessions comprised a 10-min warm-up on land, 20 min of water-walking exercise, 30 min of water exercise while separated into NWE and DWRE, a 10-min rest on land, and 10 min of recreation and relaxation in water. Postural-sway distance and tandem-walking time were decreased significantly in DWRE. Postural-sway area was decreased significantly in NWE. In both groups, simple reaction times were significantly decreased. The findings of this study show that a water exercise program including deep-water running is much better than normal water exercise for improving dynamic balance ability in the elderly.
Association between Muscle Mass and Isometric Muscle Strength in Well-Functioning Older Men and Women
Authors: Beliaeff Serge , Bouchard Danielle R. , Hautier Christophe , Brochu Martin , Dionne Isabelle J.
Published: August 2016

This cross-sectional study examined the relationship between arm and leg muscle mass and isometric muscle strength in 465 well-functioning women and 439 well-functioning men from the NuAge cohort, age 67–84 years. Leg and arm muscle mass and body fat were measured by dual-X-ray absorptiometry. Maximum voluntary isometric strength of knee extensors and elbow flexors was measured using the belt-resisted method and a handheld dynamometer, respectively. The regression model including leg muscle mass, physical activity level, age, height, and body fat explained 14% of the variance in quadriceps strength in men and 11% in women (p < .001), whereas the model including arm muscle mass and the same covariates elucidated 40% and 28%, respectively, of the variance in biceps strength (p < .001). These results suggest that muscle mass does not play a crucial role in the variations of isometric muscle strength in well-functioning elderly.
Exercise Self-Efficacy and Control Beliefs: Effects on Exercise Behavior after an Exercise Intervention for Older Adults
Authors: Neupert Shevaun D. , Lachman Margie E. , Whitbourne Stacey B.
Published: August 2016

The current study examined exercise self-efficacy and exercise behavior during and after a strength-training intervention program with older adults. A model with cross-lagged and contemporaneous paths was tested with structural equations. Within testing occasions, higher physical resistance was related to greater beliefs in efficacy and control over exercise. At 3 months into the intervention, those who had higher physical resistance were less likely to show subsequent changes in beliefs. Those who had higher self-efficacy and control beliefs at 6 months were more likely to report that they were still exercising at 9 and 12 months after the intervention. Findings indicate that exercise self-efficacy and exercise behavior are associated with one another and that beliefs developed during an intervention are important for maintenance of an exercise regimen.
Accelerometer Assessment of Physical Activity in Active, Healthy Older Adults
Authors: Copeland Jennifer L. , Esliger Dale W.
Published: August 2016

Despite widespread use of accelerometers to objectively monitor physical activity among adults and youth, little attention has been given to older populations. The purpose of this study was to define an accelerometer-count cut point for a group of older adults and to then assess the group’s physical activity for 7 days. Participants (N = 38, age 69.7 ± 3.5 yr) completed a laboratory-based calibration with an Actigraph 7164 accelerometer. The cut point defining moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was 1,041 counts/min. On average, participants obtained 68 min of MVPA per day, although more than 65% of this occurred as sporadic activity. Longer bouts of activity occurred in the morning (6 a.m. to 12 p.m.) more frequently than other times of the day. Almost 14 hr/day were spent in light-intensity activity. This study demonstrates the rich information that accelerometers provide about older adult activity patterns—information that might further our understanding of the relationship between physical activity and healthy aging.
Getting Grounded Gracefully©: Effectiveness and Acceptability of Feldenkrais in Improving Balance
Authors: Vrantsidis Freda , Hill Keith D. , Moore Kirsten , Webb Robert , Hunt Susan , Dowson Leslie
Published: August 2016

The Getting Grounded Gracefully© program, based on the Awareness Through Movement lessons of the Feldenkrais method, was designed to improve balance and function in older people. Fifty-five participants (mean age 75, 85% women) were randomized to an intervention (twice-weekly group classes over 8 wk) or a control group (continued with their usual activity) after being assessed at baseline and then reassessed 8 wk later. Significant improvement was identified for the intervention group relative to the control group using ANOVA between-groups repeated-measures analysis for the Modified Falls Efficacy Scale score (p= .003) and gait speed (p= .028), and a strong trend was evident in the timed up-and-go (p= .056). High class attendance (88%) and survey feedback indicate that the program was viewed positively by participants and might therefore be acceptable to other older people. Further investigation of the Getting Grounded Gracefully program is warranted.
Factors Influencing the Physical Activity of Older Adults in Long-Term Care: Administrators’ Perspectives
Authors: Benjamin Kathleen , Edwards Nancy , Caswell Wenda
Published: August 2016

In 2006, the authors conducted a multisite qualitative study in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada to examine organizational and environmental factors that influence physical activity for long-term-care (LTC) residents. The article describes the results of interviews with 9 administrators from nonprofit and for-profit LTC facilities. A content analysis revealed that despite having positive views about the value of physical activity, the administrators encountered challenges related to funding, human resources, and the built (physical) environment. The intersection of staffing issues and challenges in the built environment created less than optimal conditions for physical activity programs. Findings suggest that until there are adequate human and financial resources, it will be difficult to implement evidence-informed physical activity programs for residents in LTC settings in Ontario. A review of provincial LTC standards for physical activity program requirements and the built environment is warranted.
Effect of a Sand or Firm-Surface Walking Program on Health, Strength, and Fitness in Women 60–75 Years Old
Authors: Morrison Kimberley , Braham Rebecca A. , Dawson Brian , Guelfi Kym
Published: August 2016

The effects of 8 wk of soft-sand (n= 19) and firm-surface walking (n= 19) on blood lipids, submaximal fitness (8-min walk at 4.5 km/hr), and leg strength in elderly (60+ yr), sedentary women were studied. Significant main time effects (p< .005) were found for blood lipids. The surface interaction effect for high-density lipoprotein approached significance (p= .052), with a tendency for higher levels in the sand group postintervention (p= .06). Neither group reported significant differences across time for submaximal oxygen consumption (p= .223), but a greater percentage reduction in heart-rate response to the 8-min walk was reported in the sand group (p= .016). Knee strength did not change in either group, whereas hip strength significantly improved in both groups (p= .0001), with larger effect sizes reported in the sand group. Overall, both groups showed improvements in blood lipids, fitness, and strength, with strength changes being slightly higher in the sand-walking group.
Influence of Age on Neuromuscular Control during a Dynamic Weight-Bearing Task
Authors: Madhavan Sangeetha , Burkart Sarah , Baggett Gail , Nelson Katie , Teckenburg Trina , Zwanziger Mike , Shields Richard K.
Published: August 2016

Neuromuscular control strategies might change with age and predispose the elderly to knee-joint injury. The purposes of this study were to determine whether long latency responses (LLRs), muscle-activation patterns, and movement accuracy differ between the young and elderly during a novel single-limb-squat (SLS) task. Ten young and 10 elderly participants performed a series of resistive SLSs (~0–30°) while matching a computer-generated sinusoidal target. The SLS device provided a 16% body-weight resistance to knee movement. Both young and elderly showed significant overshoot error when the knee was perturbed (p < .05). Accuracy of the tracking task was similar between the young and elderly (p = .34), but the elderly required more muscle activity than the younger participants (p < .05). The elderly group had larger LLRs than the younger group (p < .05). These results support the hypothesis that neuromuscular control of the knee changes with age and might contribute to injury.
Feasibility and Effectiveness of a Walking Program for Community-Dwelling Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: van Uffelen Jannique G.Z. , Chinapaw Marijke J.M. , Hopman-Rock Marijke , van Mechelen Willem
Published: August 2016

This study examined the feasibility and effect on aerobic fitness of a 1-yr, twice-weekly, group-based moderate-intensity walking program (MI-WP, n = 77) compared with a low-intensity activity program (LI-AP, n = 75) for community-dwelling older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Thirty participants did not start a program; median attendance in the other 122 participants was 71%. Small but significant associations were observed between attendance and memory in the MI-WP and general cognition in the LI-AP. Associations were no longer significant when both groups were analyzed together. Intensity, assessed using percentage of heart-rate reserve and the Borg scale, equaled intended intensity for both programs. Aerobic fitness improved significantly in participants in the MI-WP. In conclusion, cognition was not clearly associated with attendance in the 62 participants starting the MI-WP, and average attendance was good. The intensity was feasible for participants who continued the MI-WP. The findings support the proposal that regular moderate-intensity walking improves aerobic fitness in adults with MCI.
Predictors of Longitudinal Changes in Older Adults’ Physical Activity Engagement
Authors: Cohen-Mansfield Jiska , Shmotkin Dov , Goldberg Shira
Published: August 2016

The study aimed to investigate factors influencing older adults’ physical activity engagement over time. The authors analyzed 3 waves of data from a sample of Israelis age 75–94 (Wave 1 n = 1,369, Wave 2 n = 687, Wave 3 n = 154). Findings indicated that physical activity engagement declined longitudinally. Logistic regressions showed that female gender, older age, and taking more medications were significant risk factors for stopping exercise at Wave 2 in those physically active at Wave 1. In addition, higher functional and cognitive status predicted initiating exercise at Wave 2 in those who did not exercise at Wave 1. By clarifying the influence of personal characteristics on physical activity engagement in the Israeli old-old, this study sets the stage for future investigation and intervention, stressing the importance of targeting at-risk populations, accommodating risk factors, and addressing both the initiation and the maintenance of exercise in the face of barriers.
Personal Factors, Perceived Environment, and Objectively Measured Walking in Old Age
Authors: de Melo Lucelia Luna , Menec Verena , Porter Michelle M. , Ready A. Elizabeth
Published: August 2016

This study examined the associations between walking behavior and the perceived environment and personal factors among older adults. Sixty participants age 65 yr or older (mean 77 ± 7.27, range 65–92) wore pedometers for 3 consecutive days. Perceived environment was assessed using the Neighborhood Environment Walk-ability Scale (abbreviated version). Physical function was measured using the timed chair-stands test. The mean number of steps per day was 5,289 steps (SD = 4,029). Regression analyses showed a significant association between personal factors, including physical function (relative rate = 1.05, p < .01) and income (RR = 1.43, p < .05) and the average daily number of steps taken. In terms of perceived environment, only access to services was significantly related to walking at the univariate level, an association that remained marginally significant when controlling for personal characteristics. These results suggest that among this sample of older adults, walking behavior was more related to personal and intrinsic physical capabilities than to the perceived environment.
Physical Activity and Years of Healthy Life in Older Adults: Results From the Cardiovascular Health Study
Authors: Hirsch Calvin H. , Diehr Paula , Newman Anne B. , Gerrior Shirley A. , Pratt Charlotte , Lebowitz Michael D. , Jackson Sharon A.
Published: August 2016

Little is known about how many years of life and disability-free years seniors can gain through exercise. Using data from the Cardiovascular Health Study, the authors estimated the extra years of life and self-reported healthy life (over 11 years) and years without impairment in activities of daily living (over 6 years) associated with quintiles of physical activity (PA) in older adults from different age groups. They estimated PA from the Minnesota Leisure Time Activities Questionnaire. Multivariable linear regression adjusted for health-related covariates. The relative gains in survival and years of healthy life (YHL) generally were proportionate to the amount of PA, greater among those 75+, and higher in men. Compared with being sedentary, the most active men 75+ had 1.49 more YHL (95% CI: 0.79, 2.19), and the most active women 75+ had 1.06 more YHL (95% CI: 0.44, 1.68). Seniors over age 74 experience the largest relative gains in survival and healthy life from physical activity.
Effectiveness of a Lifestyle Physical Activity Versus a Structured Exercise Intervention in Older Adults
Authors: Van Roie Evelien , Delecluse Christophe , Opdenacker Joke , De Bock Katrien , Kennis Eva , Boen Filip
Published: August 2016

Two groups of sedentary older adults, participating in either a lifestyle physical activity intervention (LIFE, n = 60) or a structured exercise intervention (STRU, n = 60), were compared with a control group (CO, n = 66) in terms of physical fitness and cardiovascular risk factors. Participants in LIFE were stimulated to integrate physical activity into their daily routines and received an individualized home-based program. Participants in STRU completed 5 supervised training sessions every 2 wk in a fitness center. Both interventions lasted 11 months and focused on endurance, strength, flexibility, and postural/balance exercises. The results revealed that the interventions were equally effective in improving functional performance. STRU was more effective than LIFE in improving cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness. Limited effects emerged on cardiovascular risk, with STRU improving in total cholesterol and HDL. Consequently, interventions aiming at reducing cardiovascular risks among sedentary elderly should focus on long-term changes in physical activity behavior.
Enhancing Strength and Postocclusive Calf Blood Flow in Older People With Training With Blood-Flow Restriction
Authors: Patterson Stephen D. , Ferguson Richard A.
Published: August 2016

The response of calf-muscle strength, resting blood flow, and postocclusive blood flow (PObf) were investigated after 4 wk of low-load resistance training (LLRT) with and without blood-flow restriction in a matched-leg design. Ten untrained older individuals age 62–73 yr performed unilateral plantar-flexion LLRT at 25% 1-repetition maximum (1RM). One limb was trained with normal blood flow and the other had blood flow restricted using a pressure cuff above the knee. 1RM, isometric maximal voluntary contraction, and isokinetic strength at 0.52 rad/s increased (p< .05) more after LLRT with blood-flow restriction than with normal blood flow. Peak PObfincreased (p< .05) after LLRT with blood-flow restriction, compared with no change after LLRT with normal blood flow. These results suggest that 4 wk of LLRT with blood-flow restriction may be beneficial to older individuals to improve strength and blood-flow parameters.
Sex-Dependent Associations Between Daily Physical Activity and Leg Exercise Blood Pressure Responses
Authors: Gonzales Joaquin U. , Grinnell Dustin M. , Kalasky Martha J. , Proctor David N.
Published: August 2016

The authors examined interindividual and sex-specific variation in systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure responses to graded leg-extension exercise in healthy older (60–78 yr) women (n = 21) and men (n = 19). Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), body composition, physical activity (accelerometry), and vascular function were measured to identify predictors of exercise BP. Neither VO2max nor activity counts were associated with the rise in SBP or DBP during exercise in men. The strongest predictors of these responses in men were age (SBP: r2 = .19, p = .05) and peak exercise leg vasodilation (DBP: r2 = –.21, p < .05). In women, the modest relationship observed between VO2max and exercise BP was abolished after adjusting for central adiposity and activity counts (best predictors, cumulative r2 = .53, p < .05, for both SBP and DBP). These results suggest that determinants of variation in submaximal exercise BP responses among older adults are sex specific, with daily physical activity influencing these responses in women but not men.
Early and Later Life Sport Participation Patterns among the Active Elderly in Japan
Authors: Harada Munehiko
Published: August 2016

To better understand the historical pattern of sport participation in Japan, two active elderly groups—Masters athletes and senior university students—were compared. Research findings suggest that Masters athletes perceive sport as serious and competitive, and their previous sport participation leads directly to their sport participation in later life. On the other hand, senior university students are more likely to perceive sport as a playful leisure pursuit. For them, leaving and reentering sport is not uncommon. This paper presents eight possible patterns of lifelong sport and exercise participation that should be considered when designing marketing programs to recruit elderly participants, and when developing programs to meet the needs of a heterogeneous older population with a variety of beliefs, attitudes, and experiences in sport and exercise.
A 1-Year Exercise Program for Older Women: Effects on Falls, Injuries, and Physical Performance
Authors: MacRae Priscilla Gilliam , Feltner Michael E. , Reinsch Sibylle
Published: August 2016

This study examined the effects of a 1-year low intensity exercise program in community dwelling older women on falls, injuries, and risk factors for falls such as poor balance, muscular weakness, and gait abnormalities. Eighty older women were assigned to an exercise (Ex, n = 42) or attention control (Co, n = 38) group. During the 1-year study, 36% of the Ex group experienced a fall compared to 45% of the Co group (χ2 = 0.22, p ≥ 0.05). None of the 10 fallers in the Ex group suffered an injury that required medical attention, compared with 3 of the 14 fallers (21%) in the Co group. Further analyses indicated that the Co group declined significantly in isometric strength of the knee extensors and ankle dorsiflexors while the Ex group did not change significantly across the 1-year study. On measures of hip abductor strength, balance, and gait, the groups were not significantly different from each other pre- to post intervention.
Age and Level of Performance in Major League Baseball
Authors: Over Ray
Published: August 2016

The relationship between age and the level of performance of major league baseball players was assessed through quasi-experimental designs. Whereas cross-sectional comparisons revealed no differences in batting and fielding statistics between younger and older players, longitudinal analysis showed significant decrements in batting performance as players aged from 30 to 35 years. A decline in performance with age was found even among elite players. Age decrements in achievement need to be studied not only in the context of molar measures such as batting statistics but also at a microanalytic level through reference to component skills. This paper outlines a methodology that can be used in assessing the nature and basis of age decrements in skilled athletic performance.
The Revolution in Aging: Implications for Curriculum Development and Professional Preparation in Physical Education
Authors: Jones C. Jessie , Rikli Roberta E.
Published: August 2016

Despite dramatic increases in the older adult population, curriculum development in the area of physical activity and aging has been minimal or nonexistent in most physical education departments in higher education. As a consequence, many practitioners leading programs for older adults have had to rely primarily on self-study and on-the-job training for the knowledge and skills they need. The purpose of this paper is to suggest minimum competencies for preparing specialists in the field of physical activity and aging and to recommend corresponding curriculum development. Suggested core offerings for a concentration in physical activity and aging are presented, including specific course content for three specialty courses: physical activity and aging, physical assessment and exercise programming for older adults, and therapeutic exercise for age related chronic conditions. In view of the fact that many departments are faced with declining budgets and program cutbacks, alternative strategies for curricular revision and for integrating gerontological content into the existing physical education curriculum are discussed.