Physical and Functional Effects of Face-to-Face and Remotely Supervised Combined Exercise in Institutionalized Older Adults: A Non-Randomized Controlled Trial

Background/Objectives: Supervised exercise is an important strategy for maintaining physical function in older adults; however, access to structured programmes may be limited in long-term care settings. Remotely supervised exercise may provide an alternative mode of delivery. This study examined the effects of videoconference-supervised and face-to-face combined exercise on physical and functional outcomes in institutionalized older adults.

Methods

This three-arm non-randomized controlled trial included 87 institutionalized older adults assigned to a face-to-face exercise group, a videoconference-supervised exercise group, or a control group. Three participants did not complete follow-up, resulting in 84 participants with complete follow-up data who were included in the final analysis (mean age 83.13 ± 7.63 years). Both intervention groups completed the same 12-week combined exercise programme twice weekly, whereas the control group maintained usual activities. Body composition, muscular strength, flexibility, functional mobility, and aerobic endurance were assessed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. Time, Group, and Time × Group effects were examined using a mixed-design repeated-measures analysis.