Improvements in quadriceps strength with regular seated exercise in the institutionalized elderly

The quadriceps strength of a group of residents homes for the elderly (mean age 83 years) was assessed in a randomized controlled trial of seated group exercise versus group reminiscence therapy. Fifty-five of 65 volunteers completed the 6-month study, with 4 dropouts from the exercise group, and 6 dropouts from the reminiscence group. There were no adverse effects. Average of attendance at the exercise sessions was 72% (range, 18% to 98%) and 62% (range, 29% to 100%) at the reminiscence sessions. The reminiscence sessions comprised group interaction and discussion prompted by the use of reminiscence aids. By the end of the study, the change observed in the exercise group was significantly different from the reminiscence group in terms of quadriceps strength (p < 0.01, Mann-Whitney U test). Both groups improved equally in their ability to climb up steps, but neither cognitive function (Mini-Mental State Examination) nor reaction time altered significantly.