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Physical Activity and Elder Health

A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601). This special issue belongs to the section "Global Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 December 2019) | Viewed by 66428

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Giorgio Liguori

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Guest Editor
Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, 80133 Naples, Italy
Prof. Dr. Francesca Gallè

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, 80133 Naples, Italy
Interests: public health; epidemiology; infectious diseases prevention; behavioral risk; health promotion
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Life expectancy is increasing worldwide, and, consequently, the proportion of older people in the total population is reaching consistent levels. Considering that health conditions are often weakened during the third age, this demographic change has important social consequences. Therefore, the identification of cost-effective interventions that may improve the health status and prevent disability in old age represents one of the most important public health challenges.

Regular physical activity is widely recognized as an instrument to improve functional health and energy balance, to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, depression, and falls, and to prevent the development of disability in the elderly. At the same time, physical inactivity is considered one of the leading causes of non-transmittable diseases and contributes to functional disability in the later stages of life.

This Special Issue seeks papers considering all aspects of physical activity in relation to health in the elderly. Epidemiological and cost-effectiveness studies will be considered. High-quality narrative and systematic reviews will also be considered.

Prof. Giorgio Liguori
Prof. Francesca Gallè
Guest Editors

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2500 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Physical Activity
  • Elderly
  • Ageing
  • Health
  • Chronic Disease
  • Lifestyle
  • Cognitive function
  • Functional fitness

Published Papers (18 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 731 KiB  
Article
Older Adults’ Perceptions of the Usefulness of Technologies for Engaging in Physical Activity: Using Focus Groups to Explore Physical Literacy
by Alexandre Monte Campelo and Larry Katz
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(4), 1144; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17041144 - 11 Feb 2020
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4486
Abstract
Insufficient physical activity (PA) levels observed among older adults remain extremely high and pose a danger to developing and maintaining their physical literacy (PL). Each person’s level of PL partly depends on their physical and cognitive skills, confidence level, and degree of motivation [...] Read more.
Insufficient physical activity (PA) levels observed among older adults remain extremely high and pose a danger to developing and maintaining their physical literacy (PL). Each person’s level of PL partly depends on their physical and cognitive skills, confidence level, and degree of motivation to practice PA daily. New technologies, such as exergames and wearable fitness trackers, may enable older adults to increase their PL, stimulating uptake and ongoing PA participation. Objective: This focus group study aims to describe older adults’ perceptions of the use of technologies to engage in physical exercise programs. Methods: Fifteen participants were randomly selected from a sample of 40 older adults who completed a randomized controlled trial that investigated the benefits of using technology in the context of group-based exercise programs. Separate post-intervention focus groups were performed with an exergaming group, a conventional physical training group, and a no training group (control). Data were mapped onto constructs from the four domains of PL: affective, physical, cognitive, and behavioral. Results: Generally, participants expressed positive perceptions about the benefits of using technology to engage in PA. These positive feelings outweighed the costs and the lack of familiarization with technology. Common themes for the three groups emerged from the discussions and included familiarization with technology, using fitness tracker to monitor PA, previous exposure to technology, and interaction with peers, staff members, and relatives. In particular, participants from the exergaming group explored the ideas of training their cognitive skills while using the exergame accessories, exercising in an alternative way, competitive versus cooperative play, changes in sense of humor, skill transferability from game to real environment, progressions of the exercise intensities, and the potential use of exergames for rehabilitation. Conclusions: Participants in this study reported positive perceptions about implementing technology into exercise. Emphasizing the benefits of using technology in group-based exercise programs may increase older adults’ PL levels and their future technology adoption. The potential implementation of technology into conventional exercise programs should focus on older adults’ lifelong values, biopsychosocial conditions, and the possibility of reducing age-related risk of injuries and chronic diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
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13 pages, 1082 KiB  
Article
High Intensity Interval Training Does Not Have Compensatory Effects on Physical Activity Levels in Older Adults
by Paolo Bruseghini, Enrico Tam, Elisa Calabria, Chiara Milanese, Carlo Capelli and Christel Galvani
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(3), 1083; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17031083 - 08 Feb 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4337
Abstract
Background: Exercise has beneficial effects on older adults, but controversy surrounds the purported “compensatory effects” that training may have on total daily physical activity and energy expenditure in the elderly. We wanted to determine whether 8 weeks of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) induced [...] Read more.
Background: Exercise has beneficial effects on older adults, but controversy surrounds the purported “compensatory effects” that training may have on total daily physical activity and energy expenditure in the elderly. We wanted to determine whether 8 weeks of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) induced such effects on physical activity and energy expenditure in healthy, active older adult men. Methods: Twenty-four healthy elderly male volunteers were randomized to two groups. The experimental group performed HIIT (7 × 2 min cycling repetitions, 3 d/w); the control group performed continuous moderate-intensity training (20–30 min cycling, 3 d/w). Physical activity and energy expenditure were measured with a multisensor activity monitor SenseWear Armband Mini. Results: During HIIT, significant changes were observed in moderate and vigorous physical activity, average daily metabolic equivalents (METs), physical activity level, and activity energy expenditure (p < 0.05) but not in total energy expenditure. Sleep and sedentary time, and levels of light physical activity remained constant during the training period. Conclusions: The findings suggest that HIIT induced no compensatory effect: HIIT does not adversely affect lifestyle, as it does not reduce daily energy expenditure and/or increase sedentary time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
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11 pages, 331 KiB  
Article
Physical Activity in Older Adults: An Investigation in a Metropolitan Area of Southern Italy
by Francesca Gallè, Elita Anna Sabella, Giovanna Da Molin, Eduardo Alfonso Parisi, Giorgio Liguori, Maria Teresa Montagna, Osvalda De Giglio, Luca Tondini, Giovanni Battista Orsi and Christian Napoli
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(3), 1034; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17031034 - 06 Feb 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2411
Abstract
Physical activity (PA) and exercise are fundamental to maintaining health in older adults. World Health Organization guidelines state that older adults should practice at least 150 min/week of moderate/vigorous intensity PA to obtain health benefits. We assessed PA levels among older adults in [...] Read more.
Physical activity (PA) and exercise are fundamental to maintaining health in older adults. World Health Organization guidelines state that older adults should practice at least 150 min/week of moderate/vigorous intensity PA to obtain health benefits. We assessed PA levels among older adults in southern Italy and evaluated possible associated determinants. The study was carried out between September and November 2019 in the metropolitan area of Bari. We collected information from participants over 65 years using a self-administered questionnaire. We investigated associations between sociodemographic characteristics, health conditions, and inactivity/PA levels. A total of 383 individuals completed the questionnaire. Mean body mass index indicated that 45.4% of participants were overweight. Mean time spent in PA was 476.2 ± 297.8 min/week, with women reporting lower levels than men (370.8 ± 210 vs. 555.2 ± 334.3 min/week, p = 0.08). Weekly sitting time was positively related to age. Attending religious or recreational activities was related to moderate PA. Educational level was positively associated with PA while dog ownership represented an obstacle to achieving recommended PA levels in our population. Participants generally met the recommended levels of PA, especially men; the educational level was the main determinant. Interventions aimed at promoting PA among older adults with lower education levels and women are needed in this setting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
9 pages, 1441 KiB  
Article
Endoscopic Treatment and Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Management of Lung Abscess in Elderly Lymphoma Patients
by Roberto Cascone, Antonello Sica, Caterina Sagnelli, Annalisa Carlucci, Armando Calogero, Mario Santini and Alfonso Fiorelli
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(3), 997; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17030997 - 05 Feb 2020
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4769
Abstract
Background: The management of lung abscess may be a challenge in elderly patients undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy for previous malignancy. Herein, we reported a case series of elderly patients with previous lymphoma undergoing endoscopic treatment followed by pulmonary rehabilitation for lung abscess. [...] Read more.
Background: The management of lung abscess may be a challenge in elderly patients undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy for previous malignancy. Herein, we reported a case series of elderly patients with previous lymphoma undergoing endoscopic treatment followed by pulmonary rehabilitation for lung abscess. Methods: Our study population included a consecutive series of elderly patients with previous lymphoma and lung abscess. Suppurative infection was refractory with specific antibiotic therapy. In all cases, drainage was endoscopically inserted in lung abscess via video-bronchoscopy. This strategy allowed performing daily therapy with the installation of gentamicin directly into the abscess cavity. All patients underwent a respiratory rehabilitation program to speed up convalescence and allow early discharge. Results: After positioning the catheter through a bronchoscopic route and subsequent washing with gentamicin, all the patients in our study showed an improvement in clinical conditions with resolution of fever within a few days of starting the procedure with normalization of blood tests (mean hospital length 7 ± 0.73 days). A follow-up chest computed tomography scan showed a resolution of lung abscess within a mean of 27 ± 1.53 days. Conclusions: Endoscopic treatment with a rehabilitation program may be a valuable strategy for the management of lung abscess that is refractory to standard antibiotic therapy. Further and larger studiesshould be done to confirm our results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
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13 pages, 1407 KiB  
Article
Therapist Driven Rehabilitation Protocol for Patients with Chronic Heart and Lung Diseases: A Real-Life Study
by Carla Simonelli, Michele Vitacca, Nicolino Ambrosino, Simonetta Scalvini, Francesca Rivadossi, Manuela Saleri, Aubin G Fokom, Ilaria Speltoni, Riccardo Ghirardi and Mara Paneroni
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(3), 1016; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17031016 - 05 Feb 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3836
Abstract
Therapist driven protocols may help to tailor rehabilitation programs to individual patients. We aimed to test the feasibility, safety, and clinical usefulness of a therapist driven protocol for rehabilitation including exercise training of patients with heart or lung diseases. An internal audit elaborated [...] Read more.
Therapist driven protocols may help to tailor rehabilitation programs to individual patients. We aimed to test the feasibility, safety, and clinical usefulness of a therapist driven protocol for rehabilitation including exercise training of patients with heart or lung diseases. An internal audit elaborated the Cardio-Respiratory Exercise Maugeri Algorithm (CREMA) based on: (a) standardized baseline assessments, (b) decision-making pathways, and (c) frequency/intensity/time/type (FITT) of prescription for each exercise. Outpatients (n = 620) with chronic heart disease (CHD), recent myocardial revascularization (REVASC), chronic airway (Obstructive), and restrictive lung (Restrictive) diseases underwent exercise training according to CREMA during 4 years. Peripheral muscle strengthening was the most prescribed exercise (83.6%), while arm endurance training was the least frequently (0.75%). Exercise prescription varied widely among the disease groups (interval training 19–47%, balance 35–49%, lower limb muscle training 6–15%). After training, REVASC patients were the best improvers in the 6 min walking distance (+48.7 (56.1) m), maximal inspiratory pressure (+9.6 (15.4) cmH2O), and daily steps (+1087.2 (3297.1) n/day). Quadriceps and biceps strength, maximal expiratory pressure, and balance improved in all groups, without significant differences. Minor side effects were observed in 11.2% of the patients. The CREMA therapist driven protocol was feasible, safe, and useful for prescribing tailored training programs. Exercise prescriptions and training response differed among diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
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16 pages, 618 KiB  
Article
Multicomponent Physical Exercise in Older Adults after Hospitalization: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Short- vs. Long-Term Group-Based Interventions
by Iñaki Echeverria, Maria Amasene, Miriam Urquiza, Idoia Labayen, Pilar Anaut, Ana Rodriguez-Larrad, Jon Irazusta and Ariadna Besga
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(2), 666; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17020666 - 20 Jan 2020
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3989
Abstract
Multicomponent physical exercise is effective in curbing the effect of hospitalization in older adults. However, it is not well established which characteristics of the exercise interventions would optimize intervention sustainability and efficacy. This study compared the effects of two group-based multicomponent exercise interventions [...] Read more.
Multicomponent physical exercise is effective in curbing the effect of hospitalization in older adults. However, it is not well established which characteristics of the exercise interventions would optimize intervention sustainability and efficacy. This study compared the effects of two group-based multicomponent exercise interventions of different lengths in older adults after hospitalization. Fifty-five participants were randomly assigned to a short-term group-based branch (SGB, n = 27) or to a long-term group-based branch (LGB, n = 28). The SGB participated in a six-week multicomponent group-based exercise-training program followed by 18 weeks of home-based exercise. The LGB completed 12 weeks of each phase. Physical function, physical activity, quality of life, anthropometrics, and nutritional status were assessed at baseline, after 12 weeks, and after 24 weeks of intervention. Both groups improved physical function and nutritional status and increased physical activity after 12 weeks of intervention (paired student’s t-test, p < 0.01), and maintained the positive effects during the following 12 weeks. No group-by-time interaction was observed in any of the studied variables using mixed-model ANOVA. Based on these findings, we determined that 6 weeks of a group-based exercise intervention caused similar functional and nutritional benefits to a longer group-based intervention of 12 weeks when both are continued at home until 24 weeks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
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7 pages, 457 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Age on Gait Speed When Texting
by Linson J. Alapatt, Nancye M. Peel, Natasha Reid, Leonard C. Gray and Ruth E. Hubbard
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(2), 599; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17020599 - 17 Jan 2020
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2732
Abstract
Texting while walking exerts a high cognitive load, and may be a sensitive test of the integrity of the cognitive–motor interface. We aimed to investigate the association between chronological age and gait speed while texting. A convenience sample of 308 community-dwellers was recruited: [...] Read more.
Texting while walking exerts a high cognitive load, and may be a sensitive test of the integrity of the cognitive–motor interface. We aimed to investigate the association between chronological age and gait speed while texting. A convenience sample of 308 community-dwellers was recruited: n ≥ 50 in each age group (20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59) and n = 100 aged ≥60 years. Gait speed was measured over 10 metres under two experimental conditions: 1) walking at usual pace; 2) walking at usual pace while texting the message “Good morning Harry” on their smartphone. Both median gait speed with and without texting decreased with increasing age (p < 0.001). The differences between single- and dual-task gait speed were substantial for each age group and increased after the age of 50 years (p < 0.001). Median gait speeds while texting in people aged 50–59 (1.07 m/s) and ≥60 years (1.00 m/s) were below the recommended minimum for safely crossing roads (1.20 m/s). Texting while walking currently exposes people aged 50 and over to considerable environmental hazards. The significant slowing of gait speed while texting from middle age may be a marker of neurodegeneration, a cohort effect, or an appropriate compensatory response to reduce the risk of injury. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
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11 pages, 502 KiB  
Article
A Study of Frailty, Mortality, and Health Depreciation Factors in Older Adults
by Jwu-Rong Lin, Erin Hui-Chuan Kao, Shuo-Chun Weng and Ellen Rouyer
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(1), 211; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17010211 - 27 Dec 2019
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2337
Abstract
This study used 23 factors (eight interval variables and 15 dummy variables) as proxies for health depreciation. We used 1248 older adults from the Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology of Taichung Veterans General Hospital (Taiwan) to examine the association among frailty, health depreciation, [...] Read more.
This study used 23 factors (eight interval variables and 15 dummy variables) as proxies for health depreciation. We used 1248 older adults from the Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology of Taichung Veterans General Hospital (Taiwan) to examine the association among frailty, health depreciation, and mortality in older adults. This study found that a significant positive correlation existed between frailty and mortality in older adults. Further, we applied a recursive bivariate probit model to examine the association between health depreciation factors, frailty, and mortality. Our results showed that health depreciation factors, such as Charlson’s comorbidity index, diabetes and hyperlipidemia, significantly increased older adults’ frailty; in contrast, albumin and mini nutritional assessment significantly decreased older adults’ frailty. Through the frailty regression, we confirmed not only that health depreciation factors significantly influenced mortality, but also that creatinine, myocardial infarction, and malignant tumors could directly and significantly increase older adults’ mortality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
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10 pages, 327 KiB  
Article
The Physical Activity Questionnaire for the Elderly (PAQE): A Polish Adaptation
by Magdalena Król-Zielińska, Monika Ciekot-Sołtysiak, Wiesław Osiński, Adam Kantanista, Jacek Zieliński and Robert Szeklicki
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(24), 4947; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph16244947 - 06 Dec 2019
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3278
Abstract
The aim of the study is to assess the reliability and validity of the Polish adaptation of the Physical Activity Questionnaire for the Elderly (PAQE-PL). One hundred and four older adults (75 women and 29 men) aged 65 to 89 (mean 72.2 ± [...] Read more.
The aim of the study is to assess the reliability and validity of the Polish adaptation of the Physical Activity Questionnaire for the Elderly (PAQE-PL). One hundred and four older adults (75 women and 29 men) aged 65 to 89 (mean 72.2 ± 5.7 years) participated in the study. The test–retest procedure was used to evaluate the reliability of the PAQE-PL. Validity was assessed by comparing the results of the PAQE-PL with the measurements from an accelerometer (ActiGraph wGT3X+) and two questionnaires: the Polish version of the Community Healthy Activities Model Program for Seniors (CHAMPS-PL) and the Polish version of the Yale Physical Activity Survey (YPAS-PL). All test–retest interclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were significant (ranged from 0.64 to 0.92). The long-term stability showed significant ICCs (ranged from 0.38 to 0.87) for all participants. In regard to validity, the obtained correlation coefficients were relatively low but statistically significant for all participants between the PAQE-PL scores and energy expenditure (r ranging from 0.25 to 0.26) measured by the accelerometer. The PAQE-PL correlated with almost all CHAMPS-PL indices, YPAS-PL energy expenditure, and total physical activity time. The results suggest that the adaptation of the PAQE-PL is an acceptable tool to estimate the physical activity level among older adults in the Polish population. We recommend the cautious and well-thought-out use of the PAQE-PL with a population of older women. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
13 pages, 1297 KiB  
Article
Do Health-Related Quality of Life and Pain-Coping Strategies Explain the Relationship between Older Women Participants in a Pilates-Aerobic Program and Bodily Pain? A Multiple Mediation Model
by Pedro Jesús Ruiz-Montero, Gerardo José Ruiz-Rico Ruiz, Ricardo Martín-Moya and Pedro José González-Matarín
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(18), 3249; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph16183249 - 04 Sep 2019
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3186
Abstract
This study (1) analyzes the differences between non-participating and participating older women in terms of clinical characteristics, pain coping strategies, health-related quality of life and physical activity (PA); (2) studies the associations between non-participants and participants, clinical characteristics, pain coping strategies, HRQoL and [...] Read more.
This study (1) analyzes the differences between non-participating and participating older women in terms of clinical characteristics, pain coping strategies, health-related quality of life and physical activity (PA); (2) studies the associations between non-participants and participants, clinical characteristics, pain coping strategies, HRQoL and bodily pain and PA; and (3) determines whether catastrophizing, physical role, behavioural coping, social functioning and emotional role are significant mediators in the link between participating in a Pilates-aerobic program (or not) and bodily pain. The sample comprised 340 older women over 60 years old. Participants of the present cross-sectional study completed measures of clinical characteristics: HRQoL using the SF-36 Health Survey, pain-coping strategies using the Vanderbilt Pain Management Inventory (VPMI) and PA using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Significant differences between non-participants and participants, were found in clinical characteristics, pain-coping strategies (both, p < 0.05), HRQoL (p < 0.01), and PA (p < 0.001). Moreover, catastrophizing support mediated the link between non-participants and participants and bodily pain by 95.9% of the total effect; 42.9% was mediated by PA and 39.6% was mediated by behavioural coping. These results contribute to a better understanding of the link between PA and bodily pain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
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9 pages, 295 KiB  
Article
Associations between Self-Reported Physical Activity, Heel Ultrasound Parameters and Bone Health Measures in Post-Menopausal Women
by Bolaji Lilian Ilesanmi-Oyelere, Nicole C. Roy, Jane Coad and Marlena Cathorina Kruger
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(17), 3177; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph16173177 - 31 Aug 2019
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3513
Abstract
Physical activity plays an important role in the maintenance of bone health from childhood through adulthood. This study aimed to explore the associations between self-reported physical activity (PA), activity energy expenditure (AEE), heel ultrasound parameters and bone health measures among older adult women. [...] Read more.
Physical activity plays an important role in the maintenance of bone health from childhood through adulthood. This study aimed to explore the associations between self-reported physical activity (PA), activity energy expenditure (AEE), heel ultrasound parameters and bone health measures among older adult women. The AEE was estimated from the responses of questionnaires for 125 older adult women aged 54–81 years. The bone parameters were measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and heel ultrasound parameters by the heel quantitative ultrasound (QUS). This study showed that AEE and the metabolic equivalent task (MET) were positively correlated with the bone and heel ultrasound parameters. However, fat mass (FM) and fat percentage were negatively correlated with AEE and MET. In addition, the regression analysis showed that higher AEE was a strong predictor of a higher spine T-score (β = 0.212, p = 0.015), QUS T-score (β = 0.239, p = 0.011) and stiffness index (β = 0.240, p = 0.010) after adjusting for age, fat mass, lean mass, height and calcium intake. These results contribute to our understanding of the importance of physical activity in postmenopausal women by reiterating the benefits of physical activity for older adult women. Physical activity is an important tool for the prevention and management of osteoporosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
15 pages, 554 KiB  
Article
Proposal of an Adapted Physical Activity Exercise Protocol for Women with Osteoporosis-Related Vertebral Fractures: A Pilot Study to Evaluate Feasibility, Safety, and Effectiveness
by Sofia Marini, Erica Leoni, Alessandra Raggi, Tiziana Sanna, Nazzarena Malavolta, Buffa Angela, Pasqualino Maietta Latessa and Laura Dallolio
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(14), 2562; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph16142562 - 18 Jul 2019
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6188
Abstract
A quasi-experimental pilot study was performed to determine the feasibility and safety of an Adapted Physical Activity (APA) protocol and its effect on health-related quality of life (HRQOL), fear of falling, pain, and physical performance in women with osteoporosis-related vertebral fractures. Forty-four post-menopausal [...] Read more.
A quasi-experimental pilot study was performed to determine the feasibility and safety of an Adapted Physical Activity (APA) protocol and its effect on health-related quality of life (HRQOL), fear of falling, pain, and physical performance in women with osteoporosis-related vertebral fractures. Forty-four post-menopausal women (mean age: 67.6 ± 4.6) with osteoporotic vertebral fractures were assigned to an exercise group (APA group = 26) who attended a six-month exercise protocol that included postural and muscular reinforcement exercises, and a control group (CG = 18) who was asked to maintain their current lifestyle. At baseline and six months after baseline, HRQOL was measured as primary outcome by the Assessment of Health Related Quality of Life in Osteoporosis (ECOS-16) questionnaire. Secondary outcomes were fear of falling (Fall Efficacy Scale International, FES-I), lumbar back pain (Visual Analogue Scale-VAS), functional exercise capacity (Six Minutes Walking Test-6MWT, Borg scale), balance and gait (Tinetti Scale), and flexibility of the column (Chair Sit-and-Reach). The effects of the intervention were analyzed by comparison within groups and between groups. Effect sizes (ES) were calculated using Cohen’s d. All the outcomes significantly improved in the APA group, while they remained unchanged in the CG. After adjustment for unbalanced variables, the comparison between groups showed significant effects of the intervention for ECOS-16-score, functional exercise capacity, balance, and gait. The exercise program had big effect sizes on HRQOL (ES = 1.204), fear of falling (ES = 1.007), balance (ES = 0.871), and functional exercise capacity (ES = 1.390). Good adherence (75.8%) and no injuries were observed. Due to its feasibility, safety, and effectiveness, the proposed exercise protocol can be adopted in APA programs addressed to patients with osteoporosis-related vertebral fractures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
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Review

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15 pages, 791 KiB  
Review
Long-Term Recreational Football Training and Health in Aging
by Esther Imperlini, Annamaria Mancini, Stefania Orrù, Daniela Vitucci, Valeria Di Onofrio, Francesca Gallè, Giuliana Valerio, Giuliana Salvatore, Giorgio Liguori, Pasqualina Buono and Andreina Alfieri
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(6), 2087; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17062087 - 21 Mar 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3397
Abstract
This narrative review aims to critically analyze the effects of exercise on health in aging. Here we discuss the main clinical and biomolecular modifications induced by long-term recreational football training in older subjects. In particular, the effects induced by long-term recreational football training [...] Read more.
This narrative review aims to critically analyze the effects of exercise on health in aging. Here we discuss the main clinical and biomolecular modifications induced by long-term recreational football training in older subjects. In particular, the effects induced by long-term recreational football training on cardiovascular, metabolic and musculo-skeletal fitness, together with the modifications in the muscle expression of hallmarks related to oxidative metabolism, DNA repair and senescence suppression pathways and protein quality control mechanisms will be provided. All these topics will be debated also in terms of preventing non-communicable metabolic diseases, in order to achieve successful aging over time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
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9 pages, 552 KiB  
Review
Does Physical Activity Regulate Prostate Carcinogenesis and Prostate Cancer Outcomes? A Narrative Review
by Marco Capece, Massimiliano Creta, Armando Calogero, Roberto La Rocca, Luigi Napolitano, Biagio Barone, Antonello Sica, Ferdinando Fusco, Michele Santangelo, Concetta Dodaro, Caterina Sagnelli, Nicola Carlomagno, Felice Crocetto, Gianluigi Califano, Francesco Mangiapia and Nicola Longo
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(4), 1441; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17041441 - 24 Feb 2020
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 5011
Abstract
Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) represents a common disease in men aged >65 years. The role of physical activity (PA) in patients at risk or diagnosed with PCa represents an evolving issue. We aimed to summarize available evidences about the impact of PA [...] Read more.
Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) represents a common disease in men aged >65 years. The role of physical activity (PA) in patients at risk or diagnosed with PCa represents an evolving issue. We aimed to summarize available evidences about the impact of PA on the pathophysiology and clinical outcomes of PCa. Methods: We performed a narrative review. Evidences about the role of PA in elderly patients in terms of PCa biology, epidemiology, oncological and functional outcomes, as well as in terms of impact on the outcomes of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) were summarized. Results: Potential pathophysiological pathways hypothesized to explain the benefits of PA in terms of prostate carcinogenesis include circulating levels of Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, sex hormones, and myokines. Clinically, emerging evidences support the hypothesis that PA is associated with decreased PCa risk, improved PCa-related survival, improved functional outcomes, and reduced ADT-related adverse events. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
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10 pages, 1296 KiB  
Review
Primary Cutaneous Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (pcALCL) in the Elderly and the Importance of Sport Activity Training
by Antonello Sica, Paola Vitiello, Andrea Ronchi, Beniamino Casale, Armando Calogero, Evangelista Sagnelli, Gilca Costa Nachtigal, Teresa Troiani, Renato Franco, Giuseppe Argenziano, Elvira Moscarella and Caterina Sagnelli
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(3), 839; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17030839 - 29 Jan 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3752
Abstract
Primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma (pcALCL) is part of a spectrum of cutaneous CD30+ lymphoproliferative disease that also includes lymphomatoid papulosis. It often occurs in elderly patients, presenting at a median age of 60 years, although it may occur at any age. [...] Read more.
Primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma (pcALCL) is part of a spectrum of cutaneous CD30+ lymphoproliferative disease that also includes lymphomatoid papulosis. It often occurs in elderly patients, presenting at a median age of 60 years, although it may occur at any age. It is a CD30+ T-cell neoplasm composed of large cells with anaplastic, pleomorphic, or immunoblastic morphology, with exclusively cutaneous onset and localization. The clinical course of pcALCL is predominantly indolent. Most elderly patients with lymphoma tend to have a sedentary lifestyle, which has a negative effect on their quality of life (QoL) and survival. Several studies indicate that exercise has a positive impact on QoL because it reduces peak oxygen consumption, improves physical capacity, increases self-esteem, reduces accumulated stress, and promotes relaxation. Therefore, particularly in indolent lymphomas, it is necessary to indicate a program of physical activity to be practiced systematically. Complete surgical excision and local radiotherapy are the first line gold standard in pcALCL with a solitary lesion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
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8 pages, 272 KiB  
Perspective
A Nationwide Network to Provide Supervised Exercise Therapy and Lifestyle Counseling for All Patients with Non-Communicable Diseases: Chronic CareNet
by Anneroos Sinnige, Maik Sliepen, Marc R. Scheltinga and Joep A.W. Teijink
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(16), 5999; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17165999 - 18 Aug 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2059
Abstract
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major cause of disability and mortality worldwide. Physical inactivity is an important contributor to the development of NCDs. Increasing physical activity through supervised exercise therapy (SET) is proven to be effective, and is a key component in both [...] Read more.
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major cause of disability and mortality worldwide. Physical inactivity is an important contributor to the development of NCDs. Increasing physical activity through supervised exercise therapy (SET) is proven to be effective, and is a key component in both the prevention and treatment of most NCDs. However, only a minority of patients with NCDs receive this treatment, mainly due to an insufficient number and poor accessibility of specialized physical therapists. The aim of this article is to describe a solution that, if indicated, enables all patients with NCDs in the Netherlands to receive SET by a specialized physical therapist: Chronic CareNet. Chronic CareNet is a nationwide network of specialized physical therapists, providing high quality SET and lifestyle counselling to patients with NCDs, initially focusing on peripheral arterial disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and coronary heart disease. The network evolved from ClaudicatioNet. In order to monitor quality of care, therapists enroll in a continuous educational program, and process and outcome indicators are collected by all therapists, which can be compared with a nationwide benchmark (quality system). A robust infrastructure of information and communication technology provides an online care finder and referral system to locate and refer to nearby therapists. All elements of Chronic CareNet are essential, to ensure that all patients in the Netherlands have access to a nearby specialized therapist. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
8 pages, 8544 KiB  
Case Report
An Anecdotal Case Report of Chronic Lymphatic Leukemia with del(11q) Treated with Ibrutinib: Artificial Nourishment and Physical Activity Program
by Antonello Sica, Caterina Sagnelli, Alfonso Papa, Massimo Ciccozzi, Evangelista Sagnelli, Armando Calogero, Erika Martinelli and Beniamino Casale
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(6), 1929; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17061929 - 16 Mar 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2299
Abstract
Chronic lymphatic leukemia (CLL) is the most frequent type of leukemia in western countries and when association with del(11q) is correlated with a worse prognosis. We reported the clinical case of an 80-year-old patient with CLL related to del(11q) and a BMI of [...] Read more.
Chronic lymphatic leukemia (CLL) is the most frequent type of leukemia in western countries and when association with del(11q) is correlated with a worse prognosis. We reported the clinical case of an 80-year-old patient with CLL related to del(11q) and a BMI of 16.4 kg/m2, who presented a voluminous mass in abdominal cavity (23 × 14 × 4 cm) which occupied the whole of the mesentery and the retroperitoneal space, treated with ibrutinib, adequate nutrition, and a program of physical activity. He showed a great improvement under ibrutinib therapy and took to artificial nourishment and adequate muscle rehabilitation until he recovered his autonomy. In August 2018, a 5-days-a-week training program was started: Physical activity for at least 20 min consisting of a fast walk in the open air three times a week and a moderate physical activity in the remaining two days of at least 20 consecutive minutes (cycling at a regular pace, carrying light weights). The exercise program included also aerobic, upper and lower limb resistance training, chore stability and stretches. The physical condition further improved and remained excellent throughout the follow-up period. In December 2018, his clinical condition was quite normal; a CT showed a great decrease of all lymphoadenomegaly, and FISH test did not show del(11q). He continued to cultivate his land, while still being treated with ibrutinib. The combination of the right therapy, adequate nutrition, and muscle rehabilitation is the best solution to improve the clinical condition of old cachectic CLL del(11q) patient. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
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10 pages, 332 KiB  
Protocol
A Randomized Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of the ACTLIFE Exercise Program for Women with Post-menopausal Osteoporosis: Study Protocol
by Laura Bragonzoni, Giuseppe Barone, Francesco Benvenuti, Veronica Canal, Claudio Ripamonti, Sofia Marini and Laura Dallolio
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(3), 809; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17030809 - 28 Jan 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3864
Abstract
Osteoporosis (OP) is a systemic disease of the skeleton characterized by increased risk of fracture. There is a general consensus on the efficacy of physical activity in the prevention of bone loss, falls and fractures, but there is no agreement on the best [...] Read more.
Osteoporosis (OP) is a systemic disease of the skeleton characterized by increased risk of fracture. There is a general consensus on the efficacy of physical activity in the prevention of bone loss, falls and fractures, but there is no agreement on the best setting to exercise. The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of a 12-months exercise protocol for women with post-menopausal OP when administered as individual home training (IHT) versus gym group training (GGT). The study is a randomized trial with two parallel groups. Sedentary patients with primary post-menopausal osteoporosis are recruited at the Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli of Bologna. In the first group, the 12-month ACTLIFE program is performed as IHT, while in the second as GGT. The program is aimed at improving joint mobility, muscle force, balance, motor coordination and endurance. The study is single blinded. Patients are assessed at baseline and after 6 and 12 months. The primary outcome is the modification of quality of life measured with the Short Osteoporosis Quality of Life Questionnaire (ECOS-16). The findings of this study will highlight advantages and disadvantages of exercising in the two different settings and provide evidence on how to increase physical activity in osteoporotic women. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Elder Health)
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