Abstract |
Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an 8-week respiratory rehabilitation program on the pulmonary
function and respiratory symptoms in community-dwelling older individuals. Methods: A total of 15 older participants
completed an 8-week respiratory rehabilitation program, meeting once a week for 90 min. The program consisted of
breathing exercises (e.g., diaphragmatic and pursed-lip breathing), resistance exercises using TheraBands, and full-body
stretching. Pulmonary function was assessed based on the forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s
(FEV₁), FEV₁/FVC ratio, maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), and maximal expiratory pressure (MEP). Respiratory
symptoms were evaluated using the COPD assessment test (CAT) and modified Medical Research Council (mMRC)
questionnaires, with pre- and postintervention comparisons. Results: Significant improvements were observed in FEV₁
(p=.019), FEV₁/FVC ratio (p=.004), and MIP (p=.016), indicating improved airflow, lung elasticity, and inspiratory muscle
strength. CAT and mMRC scores significantly decreased (p=.006 and p=.039, respectively), reflecting reduced respiratory
symptoms. Although FVC and MEP showed upward trends, these were not significant. Conclusion: The 8-week
respiratory rehabilitation program improved pulmonary function, inspiratory muscle strength, and respiratory symptoms,
demonstrating its potential as a practical and effective intervention for respiratory health management in older
individuals. |