Effects of Mat Pilates online on the depressive symptoms and quality of life of older people during the COVID-19 pandemic: a randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract

The objective is to verify the effects of an online Mat Pilates intervention on the depressive symptoms and quality of life of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a randomized controlled clinical trial involving 56 healthy and sedentary older adults (64.38 ± 3.45 years), randomized into two groups: Mat Pilates Training Group (PTG, n = 28) and Control Group (CG, n = 28). The intervention lasted 12 weeks, with two weekly 45-minute sessions using a video calling application. In the main part, the Basic Mat Pilates sequence was performed with progressions in the intensity, volume, and complexity of the exercises. The CG received a booklet with guidance on exercising without supervision and weekly health education lectures. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the PHQ-9 questionnaire. Quality of life was assessed using two questionnaires (WHOQOL-BREF and WHOQOL-OLD) and their respective domains. The analyses were carried out using the Generalized Estimating Equations model. In the per protocol analysis, there were no significant differences either in time (p = 0.352) or between groups (p = 0.739) for depressive symptoms (Pre: 3.50 ± 2.61 and 4.20 ± 5.92; Post: 3.08 ± 2.57 and 3.40 ± 3.86; PTG and CG respectively). No significant interactions (p = 0.969) were observed in overall quality of life (Pre: 75.00 ± 14.10 and 73.75 ± 13.76; Post: 76.04 ± 8.36 and 75.00 ± 17.68; PTG and CG respectively) nor in the domains analysis of the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Regarding WHOQOL-OLD, there was an improvement in the Death and Dying domain (p = 0.042) for both groups (Pre: 70.31 ± 21.67 and 71.88 ± 20.04; Post: 79.69 ± 15.34 and 74.38 ± 23.65; PTG and CG respectively), with no interactions for overall quality of life (p = 0.820) or for the other domains. Conclusion: Remote Mat Pilates was able to maintain low levels of depressive symptoms and improve some aspects of the quality of life of older adults.