Resistance training with and without instability does not improve overall levels of intrinsic capacity in older adults with cognitive complaints

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Intrinsic capacity (IC) is a construct that encompasses physical and mental capacities important for self-care and healthy aging. Understanding the potential role of resistance training with and without instability to promote IC needs to be clarified. OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of resistance training on intrinsic capacity levels in older adults with cognitive complaints. METHODS: Older adults with cognitive complaints (n=67) were randomly assigned to either 12 weeks of traditional RE (n=23), RE with instability devices (REI) (n=22), or control (n=22). Both training groups performed three sets of 10-15 repetitions. REI group performed each exercise using instability devices. The control group received weekly health education classes. IC domains were analyzed using mobility and gait velocity (locomotor), global and executive functioning (cognitive), grip strength and six-minute walking test (vitality), and depressive symptoms and self-efficacy (psychological) through z-composite scores. We computed global levels of IC by the sum of each composite score. RESULTS: A significant within-group difference (improvement) in overall levels of IC (∆REI = +1.69, ∆RE = +1.30) and all their domains (Locomotion: ∆REI = +2.32, ∆RE = +3.21; Cognition: ∆REI = +2.31; Vitality: ∆REI = +1.23, ∆RE = +1.42; and Psychological: ∆REI =-0.65, ∆RE =-0.62). However, no between-group differences were observed at the completion of the trial. Sensitivity analysis merging training groups revealed a between-group difference for the locomotor domain (+1.97, p=0.045). CONCLUSION: Resistance training with and without instability devices did not improve IC levels among older adults with cognitive complaints.