Effect of Functional Task Training versus Traditional Strengthening Exercises in Improving Functional Reach among Elderly Population

The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether the Functional task Training or Traditional strengthening exercises would be more effective in improving Functional Reach in elderly population.

One hundred subjects aged 65 years and above were randomized into two groups, fifty in each. Functional Reach (FR) was evaluated using Functional Reach Test (FRT) at baseline, 6 weeks and 12 weeks. Two different exercise programs were prescribed to the two different groups, the Functional Task Training (FTT) program and the Traditional Strengthening Exercise (TSE) program. The groups received the intervention three times in a week for 12 weeks.

Eighty Seven Subjects completed the study and were analyzed. Both the groups improved significantly (p<0.05). However, FTT group performed better than TSE group. The change of Functional Reach from baseline to 12 weeks is 24.07% in FTT group and 4.03% in TSE group

Although both groups demonstrated significant changes in Functional Reach, the observed change was greater in the FTT group than in TSE Group.