Resistance training for activity limitations in older adults with skeletal muscle function deficits: a systematic review

Evan V Papa, Xiaoyang Dong, Mahdi Hassan, Evan V Papa, Xiaoyang Dong, Mahdi Hassan

Abstract

Human aging results in a variety of changes to skeletal muscle. Sarcopenia is the age-associated loss of muscle mass and is one of the main contributors to musculoskeletal impairments in the elderly. Previous research has demonstrated that resistance training can attenuate skeletal muscle function deficits in older adults, however few articles have focused on the effects of resistance training on functional mobility. The purpose of this systematic review was to 1) present the current state of literature regarding the effects of resistance training on functional mobility outcomes for older adults with skeletal muscle function deficits and 2) provide clinicians with practical guidelines that can be used with seniors during resistance training, or to encourage exercise. We set forth evidence that resistance training can attenuate age-related changes in functional mobility, including improvements in gait speed, static and dynamic balance, and fall risk reduction. Older adults should be encouraged to participate in progressive resistance training activities, and should be admonished to move along a continuum of exercise from immobility, toward the recommended daily amounts of activity.

Keywords: aging; balance; mobility; sarcopenia; strength training.

Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Literature search strategy, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Abbreviations: AACPDM, American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine; ICF, International Classification of Functioning; PD, Parkinson’s disease; MS, multiple sclerosis; CVA, cerebrovascular accident.

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