This study analyzed the effects of an individualized and progressive multicomponent exercise program on blood pressure, cardiorespiratory fitness, and body composition in long-term care residents. This was a single-blind, multicenter, randomized controlled trial performed in 10 long-term care settings and involved 112 participants. Participants were randomly assigned to a control group or an intervention group. The control group participated in routine activities; the intervention group participated in a six-month individualized and progressive multicomponent exercise program focused on strength, balance, and walking recommendations. The intervention group maintained peak VO2, oxygen saturation, and resting heart rate, while the control group showed a significant decrease in peak VO2 and oxygen saturation and an increase in resting heart rate throughout the six-month period. Individualized and progressive multicomponent exercise programs comprising strength, balance, and walking recommendations appear to be effective in preventing cardiorespiratory fitness decline in older adults living in long-term care settings.
Keywords: Long-term care; blood pressure; body composition; cardiorespiratory fitness; exercise; nursing.
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