The effect of SPIRIT program on the anxiety of elderly in nursing homes: A pilot study

Abstract

Context: It is a pilot study to test the feasibility and the effect of a new program, namely SPIRIT, which is a comprehensive physical and mental activity to enhance the quality of life of elderly people in nursing homes. Aims: To determine the effect of a comprehensive program on reducing anxiety. Methods: The design was a quasi-experiment one group pre-test-post-test. A comprehensive program consisted of elderly gymnastics, pedaling a stationary bicycle, walking, muscle strength training, flexibility, balance, breathing relaxation, and gratitude, which were carried out three times a week for four weeks. Seven elderly who were able to do activities independently and met the criteria were willing to become participants. The results measured included the presence or absence of side effects, mean attendance, dropout rates, and anxiety scores. Results: No unexpected events occurred during the intervention. Average attendance was 86%. The mean anxiety score at baseline was 14 ±5.13 and 11 ± 3.55 at the follow-up. There was a significant decrease in anxiety with p<0.01. SPIRIT program effectively was able to reduce anxiety and deserved to be used for further research. Conclusion: The SPIRIT program effectively was able to reduce anxiety and deserved to be used for further research.