Affiliation:
1. Department of Preventive Sports Medicine and Sports Cardiology, TUM School of Medicine and Health University Hospital Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich Munich Germany
2. Institute of AI and Informatics in Medicine, TUM School of Medicine and Health University Hospital Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich Munich Germany
3. DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) Partner site Munich Heart Alliance Munich Germany
Abstract
AbstractIntroductionHigh exercise adherence is a key factor for effective exercise programmes. However, little is known about predictors of exercise adherence to a multimodal machine‐based training in older retirement home residents.AimsTo assess exercise adherence and potential predictors of adherence. Furthermore, to evaluate user acceptance of the multimodal training and the change in exercise self‐efficacy.MethodsIn this sub‐analysis of the bestform‐F study, a total of 77 retirement home residents ≥65 years (mean age: 85.6 ± 6.6 years, 77.9% female) participated in a 6‐month machine‐based resistance, coordination and endurance training. Attendance to the training was documented for each training session. To identify potential predictors a multiple linear regression model was fitted to the data. Analyzed predictors included age, sex, body mass index (BMI), physical function, exercise self‐efficacy, and physical activity history. Different domains of user acceptance (e.g. safety aspects, infrastructure) and exercise self‐efficacy were assessed by a questionnaire and the exercise self‐efficacy scale (ESES), respectively.ResultsMean exercise adherence was 67.2% (median: 74.4%). The regression model (R2 = 0.225, p = 0.033) revealed that the 6‐minute walk test (6‐MWT) at baseline significantly predicted exercise adherence (β: 0.074, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.006–0.142, p = 0.033). Different user domains were rated at least as good by 83.9%–96.9% of participants, reflecting high acceptance. No statistically significant change was found for exercise self‐efficacy over 6 months (mean change: 0.47 ± 3.08 points, p = 0.156).ConclusionRetirement home residents attended more than two thirds of offered training sessions and physical function at baseline was the key factor for predicting adherence. User acceptance of the training devices was highly rated. These findings indicate good potential for implementation of the exercise programme.