Improvement of the well-being of elderly individuals through individual and collaborative exercise programs

Authors

  • Evgenia Kouli Department of Physical Education & Sport Science, Democritus University of Thrace
  • Evangelos Bebetsos Department of Physical Education & Sport Science, Democritus University of Thrace
  • Maria Michalopoulou Department of Physical Education & Sport Science, Democritus University of Thrace
  • Filippos Filippou Department of Physical Education & Sport Science, Democritus University of Thrace

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26253/heal.uth.ojs.ispe.2024.2278

Keywords:

collaborative exercise program, individual exercise program, adult exercisers, elderly, well-being

Abstract

According to studies, well-being in the elderly is crucial for maintaining a good quality of life, as it encompasses not only physical but also mental and social health. Physical exercise has been recognized as the primary means of improving physical health and mobility in older adults, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis, thus enhancing their quality of life. Regarding mental health, exercise contributes to improved mood and cognitive function, reducing the risk of depression and cognitive decline. Additionally, exercise strengthens the independence of the elderly by improving strength, balance, and flexibility, which in turn reduces the risk of falls and injuries. Incorporating exercise into daily routines can extend the autonomy of older adults, allowing them to remain active and socially engaged.This particular study examines the effects of two different types of exercise programs on the well-being of the elderly and compares the outcomes for participants in an individual versus a collaborative exercise program. The study involved 63 elderly individuals, with an average age of 69.67 years, from Open Care Centers for the Elderly (KAPI) in Komotini. Participants completed the "Profile of Mood States" (POMS) questionnaire anonymously, which includes 37 questions categorized into 6 factors: anxiety, depression, aggression, vigor, fatigue, and confusion. The questionnaire was administered before, midway through, and at the end of the 18-week exercise program. The results of the research confirmed the reliability of the questionnaire and indicated no statistically significant differences in initial measurements between the programs. However, statistically significant differences were observed in the interaction between measurement and program in terms of vigor, as well as between groups concerning anxiety and aggression. No significant differences were noted in the other factors. The findings suggest that participation in a collaborative exercise program appears to have a greater impact on enhancing the well-being of the elderly compared to an individual exercise program.

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Published

2025-01-16

How to Cite

Kouli Ε., Bebetsos Ε., Michalopoulou Μ., & Filippou Φ. (2025). Improvement of the well-being of elderly individuals through individual and collaborative exercise programs. Inquiries in Physical Education and Sport, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.26253/heal.uth.ojs.ispe.2024.2278

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