The effect of group exercises on balance, mobility, and depressive symptoms in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: a randomized controlled trial:

Objective:To determine the effects of group exercises on balance, mobility, and depressive symptoms in community-dwelling older adults with mild cognitive impairment.Design:Single blinded, randomized, matched pairs clinical trial.Setting:Four primary healthcare units.Subjects:Fifty-two sedentary subjects with mild cognitive impairment were paired (age, sex, body mass index, and Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination Revised score), tested, and then randomized into an intervention group (n = 26) and a control group (n = 26).Intervention:The intervention group performed strength (ankle weights, elastic bands, and dumbbells) and aerobic exercises (walking) in their communities’ public spaces, twice a week (60 minutes each), during 24 weeks. The control group maintained its usual routine.Main measures:Balance (Berg Balance Scale (BBS)), mobility (Timed Up and Go Test (TUG)), and depressive symptoms (Geriatric Depression Scale-15) were assessed before and after the intervention.Results:Before the intervention, th...