Physical exercise programme for institutionalized elderly: improving quality of life

A quasi-experimental study was conducted using the Portuguese version of the Short Form-36 health survey (SF-36v2) to assess quality of life before and after a 2 months physical exercise programme. Results show that scores of SF-36v2 after the programme had significantly increased in physical (35,4±6,4 vs 37,6±5,7; z=-3,397; p=0,001) and mental (47,7±5,1 vs 51,4±3,9; z=-3,506; p=0,00) components. They also increase significantly in the SF-36v2 subscales physical functioning (p=0,000), bodily pain (p=0,002), vitality (p=0,000), social functioning (p=0,003), general health (p=0,048) and mental health (p=0,001). Physical exercise programmes can contribute to a self-perception of wellbeing leading to autonomy and confidence in performing daily living activities