This study examined the effects of a low-intensity resistance exercise program on physical function, activities of daily living (ADL), and quality of life (QoL) in community-dwelling older adults, and analyzed the relationships among these variables. ...
This study examined the effects of a low-intensity resistance exercise program on physical function, activities of daily living (ADL), and quality of life (QoL) in community-dwelling older adults, and analyzed the relationships among these variables. A pre–post comparison design was employed with 60 older adults attending a welfare center in S-gu. Participants engaged in the program twice a week for 12 weeks, with each session lasting 40 minutes. Physical function, ADL, and QoL were assessed, and data were analyzed using paired t-tests, multiple regression analyses, and mediation analysis.
The results showed significant improvements in physical function, ADL, and QoL after program participation. Notable improvements were observed in walking speed and chair stand performance, indicating enhanced lower-extremity strength and balance. QoL increased across all domains, with the greatest improvement in the psychological domain. Post-intervention analyses revealed that physical function had a positive effect on ADL, and ADL emerged as a key predictor of QoL. However, the mediating effect of ADL between physical function and QoL was not statistically significant. Among physical function components, abdominal muscle strength demonstrated significant associations with both ADL and QoL, highlighting the importance of core muscle strengthening.
These findings suggest that low-intensity resistance exercise is an effective intervention for improving physical function, ADL, and QoL in older adults, and support the development of sustainable, low-intensity exercise programs that can be integrated into daily life.