Effectiveness of a training program for caregivers of institutionalized older people on sedentary behavior, physical activity, and functionality of residents

Training caregivers of institutionalized older adults about an expanded care approach seems to be a way to maintain the resident's capabilities from the long-term care perspective. Objective: to analyze the effectiveness of training for caregivers of institutionalized older adults on sedentary behavior (SB), physical activity (PA) levels, and functionality of residents. Methods: Instructional training (four weeks) followed by the caregiver goal application period (12 weeks). Primary outcomes: Sedentary behavior (accelerometry) and functional mobility (Timed Up and Go). Secondary: physical function (SPPB), the performance of activities of daily living (Barthel Index), physical activity (accelerometer), handgrip strength, and anthropometric measurements. All analyses were conducted according to the intention-to-treat principle. Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) and the Bonferroni post-hoc test were applied for comparison between time points (pre and post-intervention) and groups (p<0.05). Results: 49 older adults participated in the study, 25 of which comprised the intervention group (IG) and 24 the control group (CG). There was a group and time interaction effect, and the IG showed a reduction in SB (p=.017), increased light PA (p=.006), and total PA (p=.018). There were no changes in moderate PA and functionality. Although not statistically significant, the Barthel Index increased by 6.8 points in the IG, a clinically meaningful difference. Conclusion: The caregiver training strategy can be important in reducing SB and promoting participation in PA, which is relevant, considering the profile of the institutionalized older adult population. Keywords: Sedentary Behavior; Physical Functional Performance; Older Adults; Caregivers; Nursing home.