Effects of Exercise on Muscle Strength and Fat Mass in Older Adults

This report presents a randomized controlled trial investigating the effects of exercise on muscle strength and fat mass in older adults with a high risk of fractures. The study compares an integrated care (IC) model with low extremities exercise (LEE) over a 3-month period, assessing changes in fat-free mass, muscle strength (using multiple indicators), and physical performance. The study included 110 participants randomized into either the IC or LEE group, with all receiving education and home-based exercise guidance. The IC group utilized various exercise modalities, while the LEE group performed machine-based lower extremity exercises. The results revealed significant improvements in fat-free mass, muscle strength, and physical performance across both groups. However, there were no significant differences between the IC and LEE groups. The conclusion suggests that with supervised exercise, both approaches are equally effective, but the IC group required fewer resources, making it more financially feasible in a community setting. The study emphasizes the importance of exercise in managing sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and fracture risk in older adults, and it highlights the potential of community-based exercise programs.