Resistance Bands Training In Preclinically Mobility Limited Older Adults: A Randomized Control Trial

Resistance training (RT) is critical for maintaining physical function, health, and independence in older adults. Unfortunately, RT participation is low amongst older adults with noted barriers, including fear of injury, lack of knowledge, and limited access to exercise facilities. Accessible low-risk equipment (resistance bands) and a faded contact approach (transitioning participants from in-person training to independent training) may allow older adults to perform RT safely and effectively. PURPOSE: We aimed to determine the effectiveness of an 18-week faded contact resistance bands training program on the physical function of community-dwelling preclinically mobility-limited older adults. METHODS: This randomized control trial (RCT) compared self-reported preclinical mobility-limited older adults (≥70 years) in a resistance bands training (RT) group or control group (CON). Trained registered kinesiologists delivered the twice weekly, 18-week faded contact group-based resistance band program in three phases (in-person, hybrid, and online). Physical function was assessed using the short performance physical battery (SPPB), 4-metre walk, timed up and go (TUG), 6-minute walk test (6MWT), and 5 times sit-to-stand pre-and-post-intervention. RESULTS: Fifty-six older adults (76 ± 4 years; 69% women; 28 ± 4 kg/m2) were randomized (RT, n = 30; CON, n = 26). Adherence to the intervention was 91%. We observed no between-group differences for the SPPB, 4 m walk, TUG, and 6MWT compared to CON (p > 0.05); however, a significant main effect of time was observed for each measure (p < 0.05). A significant interaction was observed for the 5 times sit-to-stand (RT: pre = 13.8 ± 3.4; post = 10.5 ± 2.0; CON: pre = 12.8 ± 2.7; post = 11.4 ± 2.2; p = 0.01). Within group minimal clinically important differences (MCID) for the RT group were found in the SPPB scores (+1.2 points) and the 4 m walk (-0.1 m/s). CONCLUSION: We provided preliminary insight into the efficacy of an 18-week faded contact resistance bands training program delivered by exercise and health professionals for preclinical mobility-limited older adults. We demonstrated an MCID in the SPPB and the 4 m walk in the RT group alone. Given the high adherence and clinically relevant effects, we propose that this program could be implemented on a broader scale in a larger RCT. Supported by: McMaster Institute for Research on Aging (MIRA)