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Publication
Exercise prescription for frail older adults: impact on handgrip strength and gait speed (a systematic review)
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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
Introduction: Frailty necessitates effective exercise interventions, yet optimal prescriptions remain unclear. This study aimed to determine such a prescription to improve gait speed and/or handgrip strength in frail older adults. Methods: A systematic review following PRISMA, using PEDro, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, was performed. The evidence certainty was assessed with GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation). Results: Six studies (628 frail older adults) were included. Combined exercise program, with a frequency between two-three times a week, an intensity of moderate to intense, and a duration of each session of 45–60 minutes, yielded the most significant improvements in gait speed (good evidence with very low certainty) and handgrip strength (good evidence with low certainty). Discussion: Handgrip strength and gait speed are likely to improve or be maintained after a combined exercise program of moderate or high intensity performed two to three times a week for at least 45 minutes, in frail older adults.
Description
Keywords
Physiotherapy Rehabilitation Frailty Older adults Exercise Physical performance Gait
Pedagogical Context
Citation
Carvalho A, Palma VC, Tomás MT. Exercise prescription for frail older adults: impact on handgrip strength and gait speed (a systematic review). Phys Occup Ther Geriatr. 2025 October 30. Epub ahead of print.
Publisher
Informa UK Limited