Kalapotharakos, V. I., et al. (2006). Functional and neuromotor performance in older adults. American Journal of Physical Medicine Rehabilitation, 106(1), 61-67.

The purpose of this study was to compare and contrast the effect of a 12-week aerobic exercise program catered to healthy, inactive older adults, in regards to physical and neuromotor performance. Previous studies have focused on overall effects of exercise in older adults, both physical and neuromotor, using strength and aerobic exercise.

After meeting inclusion criteria (inactivity, non-smoking, no medication use, and no history or chronic or depressive conditions), and performing a treadmill test, participants were randomly selected into exercise and control groups. Muscle strength was assessed on the lower body on two separate days to determine the heaviest weight lifted, distance was measured to test the longest distance walked, three out of five attempts were used to test the fastest chair lift, and reaction time was assessed to respond to visual signals.

As a result of this study, participants who actively participated in exercise improved their overall health. Though aging can decrease physical and neuromotor performance, consistent exercise can aid in improving poor performance and unsteady mobility.

Read the entire abstract at http://www.ncpad.org/357/2047/Functional~and~Neuromotor~Performance~in~Older~Adults.