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Aging is not simply about extending life years, but increasing the quality of life. ‘Functional age’ is much more important that ‘chronological age.’ This is interpreted as the ability of an individual to maintain certain parameters as they age, such as strength, balance, and agility. Exercise has shown significant benefits in combating some of these problems. |
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| Aging and Inactivity |
- Muscle loss occurs at a rate of 1% per year after the age of 40
- Bone density is correlated with muscle strength. Decreases in muscle mass and strength can affect bone density
- Loss of muscle strength may increase risk of falls and fractures
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To implement an exercise program for the aging population, it must be safe, gentle, and effective. Whole body vibration has attracted increased attention as an exercise alternative to combat the effects of inactivity and aging. Current research has shown positive benefits. These results have led to continuing research around the world, reinforcing vibration exercise’s role in promoting healthy aging. |
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| Aging and Vibration Exercise |
- Improvement in chair rising test, indicative of improvement in muscle power
- Improve elements of fall risk and health-related quality of life
- Ability to promote ambulatory competence (improved walking) in elderly women
- Beneficial for balance and mobility in nursing home residents with limited functional dependency
- High compliance with vibration exercise
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| Useful Downloads and Reference Summaries |
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Runge, M., Rehfeld, G., Resnicek, E. Balance training and exercise in geriatric patients. J Musculoskel Interact 2000; 1: 54-8.
This study examined the ability of vibration training to have an effect on the ‘chair rising test’, which has been proven to be a reliable, valid, sensible and predictive test for falls and future locomotor status and ADL-status. After a 2 month training program (three times per week, 3X2 minutes), they reached mean performance gains in chair rising of 18%. The findings suggest improvements in muscle power by vibration training.
Bruyere, O., Wuidart, M., Di Palma, E., Gourlay, M., Ethgen, O., Richy, F., and Reginster, J. Controlled whole body vibration to decrease fall risk and improve health-related quality of life of nursing home residents. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2005; 86: 303-7.
A randomized controlled trial was performed to investigate the effects of whole body vibration in the elderly in a nursing home setting. Compared to controls, results showed that the vibration intervention group improved on body balance, gait, and the ‘get up and go’ test. Results indicate that vibration training can improve elements of fall risk and HRQOL (health related quality of life) in elderly patients.
Bautmans, I., Van Hees, E., Lemper, J., and Mets, T. The feasibility of whole body vibration in institutionalised elderly persons and its influence on muscle performance, balance and mobility: a randomised controlled trial. BMC Geriatrics 2005; 5: 17.
This study understood that fatigue and lack of interest could reduce the feasibility of intensive physical exercise in nursing home residents. The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to investigate the feasibility of Whole Body Vibration (WBV) in institutionalized elderly, and its impact on functional capacity and muscle performance. After six weeks of training, the vibration training group improved significantly on the timed up-and-go test and maintained their baseline level of balance. The controlled group’s balance actually worsened significantly. In addition, compliance with the vibration training group was high (96%). This study concluded that WBV exercises are feasible in elderly nursing home residents with limited functional dependency, and might be beneficial for balance and mobility.
Iwamoto, J., Otaka, Y., Kudo, K., Takeda, T., Uzawa, M., and Hirabayashi, K. Efficacy of training program for ambulatory competence in elderly women. Keio J Med 2004; 53(2): 85-9.
This study looked at the effect of a 3 month program of vibration exercise on the ambulatory competence of elderly women. After 3 months of training, they showed a significant increase in the step length, knee extensor muscle strength, and maximum standing time on one leg. There were no serious adverse events observed, such as new vertebral fractures or cardiovascular symptoms. The study concluded that a vibration training program has the potential to promote ambulatory competence in elderly women.
Russo, C.R., Laurentani, F., Bandinelli, S., Bartali, B., Cavazzini, C., Guralnik, J.M., and Ferrucci, L. High-frequency vibration training increases muscle power in postmenopausal women. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2003; 84(12): 1854-7.
This study assessed the impact of a 6 month vibration training program (6 minutes per session, twice weekly) on muscle power in post menopausal women. The study found a 5% increase in muscle power, indicating that reflex muscular contractions induced by vibration exercise can improve muscle power. |
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