Empowering Physical Functions in Older Women With Sarcopenia Through Aomori Gymnastics: A Prospective, Observational, Nested Case-Control Study in Aomori Prefecture.

BACKGROUND

Japan faces rapid population aging, resulting in significant health challenges such as sarcopenia and frailty, which affect the independence and quality of life of older adults. This study evaluated the effectiveness of Aomori gymnastics, a culturally tailored exercise program, in improving physical function in older women with sarcopenia, over a three-month period.

METHODS

This prospective observational study included 24 older women divided into three groups based on their living conditions: community-dwelling participants attending preventive care programs (Groups 1 and 2) and residents of a long-term care facility (Group 3). The participants performed Aomori gymnastics daily for three months. Physical function was assessed at baseline, 1 month, and three months using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), grip strength, curl-ups, forward bend from a long sitting position, one-leg stance, and 10-m walk tests. Data were analyzed using generalized linear mixed models and the Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

Significant improvements in SPPB scores were observed between the sarcopenia and non-sarcopenia groups at baseline and one month (p < .05), these differences were not observed at three months. Participants with sarcopenia showed marked improvement in physical function, approaching the level of those without sarcopenia after three months of daily exercise. Adherence was higher among long-term care facility residents than among community-dwelling participants, which is likely due to the severe winter weather in the Aomori Prefecture.

CONCLUSION

Aomori gymnastics is an effective and low-cost intervention that can significantly improve physical function in older women with sarcopenia. Implementing this program in communities and care facilities can enhance the quality of life and independence of older adults, particularly in regions with harsh weather conditions.