Effects of a personalized physical exercise program in the ventricular-arterial coupling of older adults. A Pilot Study

Abstract

Introduction: This study was aimed at evaluating the changes in the Ventricular-Arterial Coupling (VAC) of old adults after the implementation of a multidisciplinary intervention program comprising a tailored physical exercise component. Methods: A non-randomized pilot study, enrolling 21 old adults with age above 65 years of age (mean 81.08 years). The participants were divided into two groups (Group 1 and 2), both subject to a baseline thorough and multidisciplinary diagnostic evaluation. A tailored intervention program was implemented for a period of 3 months, after which the participants were re-evaluated. The Group 2 included a component of tailored exercise training and physiotherapy intervention. Central and peripheral Blood Pressure (BP) and hemodynamic parameters related to cardiovascular efficiency were evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography and pulse wave analysis. Self-efficacy for exercise scales as well as handgrip strength and nutritional status were also evaluated at baseline and after intervention. Results: Baseline diagnostic information was similar in both groups. After the intervention, significant changes were observed in Group 2, mainly a reduction in BP, in arterial stiffness and a better cardiovascular efficiency was also depicted, with a decrease in the stroke work and an increase in the VAC, as well as in the left ventricle efficiency parameter. Regarding the indicators of frailty, there was an improvement in handgrip strength and self-efficacy for exercise in Group 2. No significant changes were observed in Group 1. Conclusion: The results of this pilot study highlight the positive modulation provided by a tailored physical exercise approach of the old adult, increasing cardiac efficiency and thus constituting a factor for improving overall well-being. Large randomized trials are needed to further validate these findings.