The Development of Integrative Exercise Program for the Elderly

Han, Shin Hi; Park, Jeong Mo

Abstract

PURPOSE: The Purpose of this research was to develop the integrative exercise program for the elderly. METHOD: The first step was to survey the elder's health status and general health problems. The second step was to design the exercise type, intensity, time and frequency. RESULT: 1. Elders who implement the integrative exercise program had weaker health status, lower physical performance and more depression than any other places. 2. The integrative exercise program developed the preparation stage composed of stretching and Yudongkong-Ki exercise, the central stage was composed of range of motion exercise, muscle strength exercise and aerobic exercise with favorite and popular Korean music. The finishing stage was composed of joint rounding and Yudongkong-Ki exercise. The exercise intensity was RPE(rating perceived exertion) 10-11, maximal pulse rate 40-60%, duration started from 20min to 50min and frequency is 2-3times/wk.
CONCLUSION
The integrative exercise program developed by the researcher is tailored exercise that is more applicable to individual cases in community settings. Eventually, the program is safely applicable to the elders, and is expected to improve the elders' physical function and quality of life.