Effectiveness of the E75 Exercise Program for Strong and Active Elderly in Improving Physical Fitness Among Older Adults in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand: A Quasi-Experimental Study

The purpose of this quasi-experimental study is to compare the fitness levels of older adults before and after taking part in the Exercise Program for Strong and Active Elderly (E75EPSAE) and to examine its effects and participant satisfaction with the program. The study was performed in Nong Tong Subdistrict, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. Participants A total of 37 old adult participants aged 60 years or older were purposively selected from the Nong Tong Elderly Club. Subjects completed the E75EPSAE program that lasted for 8 weeks and consisted of 15 exercise stations provided in a circuit training sequence. Tested methods of physical fitness measurements before and after the intervention included muscle strength, strength-endurance, flexibility, and cardio-respiratory fitness. Data were described by descriptive statistics and analyzed using paired samples t-tests. Results Chair stand performance (P<0.001), knee lift capacity (P<0.001), and right-hand back scratch flexibility (P=0.008) were all shown to improve following the intervention. Participants were very satisfied with the program in its various physical, psychological, and social aspects. The results indicate that The E75EPSAE program is effective in improving physical fitness and wellness in elderly individuals. This program may be applicable to community settings for older adults for active and healthy aging. Larger and more diverse samples are warranted to conduct long-term follow-up studies on the effectiveness and sustainability of the program.