Learning to improve mobility and quality of life in a well elderly population: the benefits of awareness through movement

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Abstract:

Objectives: This study tested the hypothesis that an alternative movement learning method, Awareness Through Movement, would produce improvements in coordination, mobility, economy of movement and quality of life in older adults. Methods: A group of 31 older adults was studied using a prospective, repeated measures control group design. The SF-36 was used to assess health status - quality of life. Video motion analysis was used to collect data on walking and on a floor to stand transfer movement. Results: Coordination of the transfer movement improved significantly in the experimental group. Vitality and mental health scores also improved significantly in this group. Interesting differences between young-old and old-old changes were observed. Conclusions: Awareness Through Movement may be an additional effective method for pursuing the objectives of Healthy People 2010.

Notes:

Stephens, James, Pendergast, Christopher, Roller, Beth Ann, & Weiskittel, Robert Scott (2005). Learning to improve mobility and quality of life in a well elderly population: the benefits of awareness through movement. IFF Academy Feldenkrais Research Journal, 2. From: http://www.iffresearchjournal.org/stephens2005.htm

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