Efeito de um programa de treinamento funcional no equilíbrio estático e dinâmico de idosas

Abstract

The growth of the elderly population is a worldwide phenomenon, and Brazil has experienced a rapid aging process in its population, thus leading to a significant increase in the elderly. It is known that balance is a complex process that depends on the integration of vision, vestibular and peripheral sensation, central commands and neuromuscular responses (muscular strength). Changes in one of these components may compromise postural control or balance. In fact, the rate of falls in the elderly due to loss of balance is very high. Objective: To quantify and compare the effect of a functional exercise training program on the static and dynamic balance of the elderly. Methodology: Participants were between 60 and 72 years old and were divided into two groups, group practicing a training program based on functional exercises (GP, n = 30, 65.5 ± 5.42 years) for more than one year, and non-practicing group (GNP, n = 30; 65.2 ± 4.63 years) for more than two years. The functional training classes lasted 1 hour, and it was performed 3 times a week. To evaluate the level of balance of the elderly, the Berg Balance Test, Timed up and Go (TUG), Tinetti's Scale and Functional Scope Test (TAF) were used. Results: In the Berg Balance, Timed up and Go, Tinetti test, no significant differences were found between the two groups (p> 0.05), only for the Functional Reach Test differences were observed between GP and GNP groups (p = 0.048). Conclusion: In the present study, it was possible to observe that the two non-practicing groups and practitioners of functional exercises obtained similar values in the tests carried out in the research with the exception of the Functional Scope Test. It is suggested that these tests do not have the sensitivity to detect significant alterations (improvements or deficits) in the balance of active or sedentary elderly women between 60 and 70 years.