Intervention for the maintenance and improvement of physical function and quality of life among elderly disaster victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of an exercise class implemented in an area affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami for maintaining and improving physical function and quality of life (QOL) among elderly victims. Methods Participants were 45 elderly disaster victims. To measure the effectiveness of the exercise classes, results on the Functional Reach Test (FRT), Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), One-leg Standing Balance (OSB), and Chair Stand Test (CST) were measured at the beginning of the exercise classes, and after 3 and 6months. In order to assess health-related QOL, the 8-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-8) was carried out at the beginning of the exercise classes, and after 1, 3, and 6months. Results Of the 45 people who consented to participate, 27 continued the program for 6months and were used for analysis. Analysis of the results for FRT, OSB, and CST showed significant improvements (respectively, p =.000, .007, and .000). SF-8 showed significant increases for the subscales of bodily pain ( p =.004), general health perception ( p =.001), and mental health ( p =.035). Conclusions By continuing an exercise program for 6months, improvements were seen in lower limb muscle strength and balance functions. Effectiveness for HRQOL was also observed.