ECSS Paris 2023: CP-MH18
INTRODUCTION: Yoga is a low-intensity exercise modality widely recognized for its ability to improve flexibility, balance, and functional mobility, particularly in older adults (OA) [2]. Preserving flexibility is essential for maintaining independence and reducing fall risk in OA. Blood flow restriction (BFR) is an emerging training method that enhances muscular adaptations at low exercise intensities, primarily through increased growth hormone production, collagen synthesis, and motor unit recruitment [1,3]. While the effects of BFR on muscle strength are well established, its potential to increase flexibility remains unclear. It is hypothesized that incorporating BFR into a yoga intervention will amplify flexibility gains in OA beyond yoga alone, providing a novel, low-intensity approach to improving physical function. This study aimed to determine whether the addition of BFR to a yoga intervention would result in greater flexibility improvements than traditional yoga alone in OA. METHODS: Twenty-five OA (20 females, 5 males; mean age 69.3 ± 5.7 years), were randomized into a BFR (n=13) or control (CON) group (n=12). Those in the BFR group received 4 elastic bands to wear on their proximal arms and thighs. Tightness of the bands was evaluated based on a response of 7 (moderate pressure without pain) out of 10 using a perceived tightness scale. Medical history was obtained prior to study participation to ensure that individuals in the BFR group did not experience a cardiovascular event within the past 6 months and did not have varicose veins. No adverse events were reported during the study. Participants completed an 8-week remote yoga intervention, twice-weekly for 1 hour per class. Pre, mid and post testing included the sit and reach (SR) test for hamstring and lower back flexibility, the trunk rotation (TR) test for dominant (DOM) and non-DOM trunk flexibility and the back scratch test (BS) for DOM and non-DOM shoulder flexibility. RESULTS: Significant improvements were seen in the percent change from pre to post intervention for both the SR (p= 0.02), the DOM TR (p= 0.05), and the non-DOM BS (p=0.01) tests in the BFR group when compared to the CON group. For the DOM BS test, the BFR group demonstrated trends of greater mean improvement (pre: -2.8 ± 11.3), (mid: -1.3 ± 10.8), (post: -1.3 ± 11.9) when compared to the CON group (pre: -10.5 ± 14.9), (mid: -10.5 ± 14.7), (post: -10.8 ± 16.1). No trends or significance was observed in the non-DOM TR test when comparing the BFR group to the CON group. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that incorporating BFR into a yoga intervention may enhance flexibility outcomes in OA. This study may offer a novel and accessible strategy for improving functional mobility in aging populations. [1] Bowman et al., 2019 [2] Grabara & Szopa, 2015 [3] Patterson et al., 2019
Read CV Emma Sarrazin-BoespflugECSS Paris 2023: CP-MH18
INTRODUCTION: The global population is undergoing an unprecedented aging process; projections indicate that by 2035, 25% of European residents will be aged 65 or older. Increased life expectancy has introduced multifaceted medical and social challenges. Many older adults experience a decline in quality of life due to chronic illness, functional impairment, reduced mobility, and a loss of independence, often exacerbated by loneliness and depression. Research demonstrates that intergenerational programs that integrate seniors with younger cohorts in educational or community settings yield significant developmental, emotional, and cognitive benefits, including enhanced self-esteem and a sense of purpose among older adults. The study aimed to evaluate the attitudes and experiences of younger and older participants in a non-familial intergenerational intervention program. METHODS: The project comprised six sessions conducted during the academic year and involved seven physical education students (specializing in Physical Activity and Health in Old Age), 11–12 elderly residents of an assisted living facility, and 15–20 high school students. The intervention employed didactic physical activities facilitated by students to foster social cohesion. Following the program, semi-structured interviews were conducted with three older adults and two college students to assess changes in mutual attitudes and perceptions. RESULTS: Qualitative thematic analysis of the interviews revealed several barriers to intergenerational connection. Elderly participants perceived a "Generational Gap," noting that youth are often "living in their own world" and preoccupied with developmental milestones and academic/social demands. Among college students, themes such as "difficulty in bridging the gap" emerged, including perceptions that older adults are "overly communicative" and that young people often "lack patience" or are deterred by older adults' physical appearance. Conversely, facilitators of connection included the elderly’s desire to "transmit legacy" and the students' report of a "desire for continued engagement" and "a project with a horizon". CONCLUSION: The analysis suggests that while both seniors and students perceive contemporary youth as self-involved, the project successfully bridged generational gaps. Such frameworks facilitate the deconstruction of ageist stereotypes and myths, allowing youth to perceive the elderly as unique individuals rather than a monolithic group. Furthermore, interaction with youth, characterized by "softness and primality," elicited feelings of liberation and enjoyment among the elderly. The findings indicate that the project contributed to a sense of meaning and vitality for the seniors. Future research should examine the broader cognitive and socioemotional impacts of such interventions, particularly those that incorporate physical activity components.
Read CV Helen DayanECSS Paris 2023: CP-MH18