Effects of combined rusie dutton exercise and locomotion training at home with family involvement on leg muscle strength in older adults with chronic diseases dwelling in Bangkok, Thailand

Abstract

Older adults with chronic diseases often experience reduced leg muscle strength, an increased fall risk, and a fragile quality of life. Exercise has been shown to improve leg muscle strength. The study aims to analyze the effects of combined Rusie Dutton exercise and locomotion training at home with family involvement on leg muscle strength in older adults with chronic diseases dwelling in Bangkok, Thailand. The study employed an experimental design involving older adults aged 60-79 years with chronic diseases from communities in Bangkok. The sample was randomly assigned to either the experimental or control group, with 34 subjects in each group. The experimental group received instructions on increasing leg muscle strength and exercise skill training. They were also trained to use the LINE application for accessing and recording exercise data, setting goals, and planning exercises. The participants performed Rusie Dutton exercises combined with home-based locomotion training three times a week for 50 minutes over a period of ten weeks, supervised by family members. Data collection included demographic interviews, pre-exercise readiness assessments, and the 30-Second Chair Stand Test. Statistical analysis comprised the chi-square test, independent t-test, and paired t-test. Following the intervention, the experimental group exhibited a statistically significant increase in mean leg muscle strength compared to the control group (p < .05). Moreover, the experimental group's mean post-test leg muscle strength significantly improved compared to pre-test scores (p < .05). Studies suggest that the exercise program significantly increases leg muscle strength in older adults with chronic diseases. The program can be implemented at home with family involvement, demonstrating its potential for improving physical health in this population.