Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Research in Sport Education and Sciences, cilt.27, sa.2, ss.150-165, 2025 (Scopus)
This study investigated the effects of a 12-week functional exercise (FE) program on motor and cognitive abilities in older adults with mild to moderate dementia. A total of 200 voluntary participants were assessed, with 100 participants in the FE group (Group 1) and 100 in the control group (Group 2). Data were collected using modified versions of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Tinetti Walking Test, Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), and Physical Activity Scales (IPAQ). The groups were comparable in demographic characteristics such as age (Group 1: 72.1 ± 6.2 years; Group 2: 71.8 ± 5.9 years, p>.05) and physical activity levels (both groups were predominantly sedentary). Balance scores significantly improved in Group 1 (pre: 44.3 ± 8.7; post: 54.1 ± 7.5, F=16.45, p<.001), whereas no significant change was observed in Group 2. Walking speed showed a significant increase in Group 1 (pre: 0.95 ± 0.12 m/s; post: 1.05 ± 0.14 m/s, F=5.24, p=.022). Functional mobility scores significantly improved in Group 1 (pre: 32.8 ± 6.3; post: 38.4 ± 5.6, F=8.35, p=.004). General cognitive function scores also showed a significant increase in Group 1 (pre: 21.3 ± 3.4; post: 23.1 ± 3.1, F=6.41, p=.013), while no significant change was observed in Group 2. Improvements in balance mediated walking speed (β=0.48, p<.001) and cognitive function (β=0.35, p<.001). Changes in functional mobility significantly influenced walking speed (β=0.37, p=.002). The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the FE program in enhancing motor and cognitive functions in older adults with dementia. These findings highlight the program’s potential to improve quality of life and delay functional decline in this population.