Effectiveness of a multidimensional therapeutic program for aged people attending senior centers

Abstract

Background: It is imperative to have effective programs to improve or maintain the health of aged people. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention based on a multidimensional program in Senior centers in Chile five months after its implementation, in the domains of physical and mental health, functionality and quality of life in aged people. Material and Methods: Sixty participants older than 60 years completed a multidimensional program for one month that included interventions of guided physical exercises, in addition to educational and social activities. They were evaluated at baseline and one and five months after the intervention. Results: After the first and fifth months, significant improvements were observed in the five times sit to stand test (5TSTS) and gait speed (WST), in addition, significant improvements were observed in literacy measured by the Short Assessment of Health Literacy for Spanish-speaking Adults (SAHLSA). At the fifth month, slight improvements were observed in the Yesavage and short Falls efficacy scales, Barthel index, Unipodal Station and EuroQol five-dimensional quality of life tests. Conclusions: A multidimensional program for aged people lasting one month, improved the physical health dimension and literacy by the fifth month of evaluation.