The Effects of Aquatic Combined Exercise on Functional Fitness and Quality of Life in Older Adults

This study aims to identify the effects of aquatic composite exercise on the functional fitness and quality of life of the elderly. For this purpose, individuals aged 65 and older were randomly assigned to three groups, and a pre-test and post-test control group design was applied, leading to the following conclusions. First, lower limb muscle function, Upper limb muscle function, upper limb flexibility, lower limb flexibility, and balance in the elderly showed improvements with both aquatic composite exercise and aquatic exercise, with the most significant effects observed from aquatic composite exercise. cardiorespiratory endurance showed the greatest improvement with aquatic exercise. In conclusion, aquatic composite exercise has a positive effect on improving the functional fitness of the elderly, and it can be recommended as a method to maintain and enhance the physical fitness of the elderly. Second, factors such as personal conditions, environmental conditions, and social conditions in the quality of life of the elderly showed positive effects with both aquatic composite exercise and aquatic exercise. Therefore, encouraging participation in aquatic-related exercises and promoting continuous participation can be an effective strategy to positively influence the quality of life of the elderly.