Effects Of A 12-week Physical Exercise Program On Functional Capacity In Older Female Adults In Veracruz, Mexico

Aging leads to functional decline, often reducing independence and quality of life in older adults. Physical activity is recognized as a vital factor for functional capacity in this population. PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of a structured exercise program on the functional capacity of older adults. METHODS: A longitudinal, single-group pre-post design study was conducted with a convenience sample of 28 older female adults (Mage = 66.41; SD = 6.03) participating in a 12-week physical activity intervention in Veracruz, Mexico. The program comprised 60 sessions with a 100% adherence rate, incorporating functional exercises aimed at enhancing aerobic capacity, flexibility, muscular endurance, and strength, performed in a pool environment. Functional capacity was evaluated pre- and post-intervention using the Senior Fitness Test (SFT; the chair stand, arm curl, chair sit-and-reach, back scratch, 8-foot up-and-go, and 6-minute walk tests). Statistical analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS v25. Paired t-tests, effect sizes, and 95% CI were calculated to assess the statistical significance of changes in functional outcomes (α = .05). RESULTS: The 12-week exercise program resulted in significant improvements in the functional capacity: a) Arm Curl Test: t(27) = −3.17, p = .004, d = −0.60, 95% CI [-2.06, -0.44]; b) Chair Stand Test: t(27) = −7.83, p < .001, d = −1.48, 95% CI [-1.58, -0.92]; c) Chair Sit-and-Reach Test: t(27) = −6.60, p < .001, d = −1.25, 95% CI [-2.57, -1.35]; d) Back Scratch Test: t(27) = −4.93, p < .001, d = −0.93, 95% CI [-2.73, -1.13]; e) 8-Foot Up-and-Go Test: t(27) = 7.92, p < .001, d = 1.50, 95% CI [0.51, 0.87]; and f) 6-Minute Walk Test: t(27) = −8.55, p < .001, d = -1.62, 95% CI [-62.74, -38.45]. CONCLUSION: The 12-week exercise program significantly improved functional capacity in older female adults, demonstrating meaningful gains in strength, flexibility, agility, and endurance. These findings support the importance of regular physical activity in community settings for maintaining functional independence in aging women. The results highlight the potential of structured exercise programs to enhance quality of life in older populations. Further research is recommended to explore the effects of different intervention durations and to assess long-term benefits on physical and functional health.