Effect of Physical Activity to Improve Quality of Life Among Geriatric Population: A Randomized Control Trial

BACKGROUND: The ageing population is frequently associated with losses in physical health, mental well-being, and function, thereby diminishing quality of life (QOL). Physical activity is a modifiable behavioral variable that is associated with enhancing QOL and postponing age-related deterioration. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of physical activity on QOL among the elderly. METHODOLOGY: A randomized control trial was conducted with 70 participants aged 60 years and above, recruited from a community center. Participants were randomly divided into experimental (n=35) and control (n=35) groups. Baseline QOL was assessed using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire, which evaluates four domains: physical health, psychological, social relationships, and environment. The experimental group received a 12-week intervention that included individualized physical activity sessions thrice a week, while the control group continued with their usual routines. Paired t-tests were used to analyze post-intervention data, with a significance level set at p<0.005. RESULTS: There was a significant increase in all the domains of QOL among the experimental group post-intervention (p<0.001). The mean scores improved from 37.11 to 74 for physical health, 39.29 to 71.91 for psychological, 50.63 to 77.54 for social relationships, and 51.43 to 73.80 for the environment. Meanwhile, the control group showed no improvements with some domains going down. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that PA significantly improves the QOL in older adults. Structured interventions of PA need to be introduced into geriatric care to promote functional abilities and prevent age-related declines, while promoting healthier aging. Key words: Physical activity, Geriatrics, Quality of Life, WHOQOL-BREF