Systematic Review of Rehabilitation Programs Affecting Grip Strength in the Elderly: Focusing on Domestic Literature

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

Purpose: This study assessed a rehabilitation program for improving grip strength in the elderly and to inform the necessity of a program that allows self-rehabilitation through interest and enjoyment. The grip strength will be helpful in physical rehabilitation for the elderly and provide the necessary data for developing intervention programs.
Methods: This study was conducted from June 22 to July 29, 2024, and searched only KCI-registered journals and KCI-registered candidates for the past 10 years through RISS, KISS, the National Library of Korea, and the National Assembly Library. The study was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines, and the main search terms were “elderly,” “grip strength,” “old age,” and “grip.” The literature was finally collected into eight volumes based on the exclusion criteria.
Results: Various exercise intervention programs (e.g., Tai Chi, aquatic exercise, elastic band, telephone coaching, gym ball, aerobic and anaerobic exercise, muscle strengthening flow chart, and recreation) were used, and the grip strength increased in all studies except for one volume where only the right hand increased without any change in the left hand. Most variables measured together (pain, fear of falling, balance ability, depression, flexibility, muscle mass, and bone density) increased, but the cognitive function and metabolic syndrome did not change.
Conclusion: Future studies should examine intervention methods tailored to the physical, psychological, and mental aspects of the elderly by taking advantage of the exercise program to improve grip strength so that they can enjoy their daily lives.