The Effect Of Pilates On Range Of Motion In Aging Adults Living In Assisted Living Facilities

Brittany A. Lanier; William E. Johnson; Blair A. Thornton

Volume : IV, Issue : X, October - 2015

The Effect Of Pilates On Range Of Motion In Aging Adults Living In Assisted Living Facilities

Brittany A. Lanier, William E. Johnson, Blair A. Thornton

Abstract :

The purpose of this study was to determine if regular participation in Pilates exercise classes would improve the range of motion (ROM) in elderly adults living in assisted living facilities. This study specifically addresses the ROM of the shoulder, elbow, and neck muscles. Five aging adults from two different assisted living facilities participated in this study. Twelve ROM measurements were taken weekly in the Pilates group. The control group ROM measurements occurred at the beginning of week 1 and at the end of week 6. Data from this study did not meet the criteria for normality, therefore, the simple difference in the degrees of ROM was calculated. Results of the simple degree difference revealed that ten out of the twelve of the ROM measurements taken from the treatment (Pilates) group showed an increase in their of range of motion as a result of their participation in the six week study.