Recreational Therapy to Promote Mobility in Long-Term Care: A Scoping Review.
Study Goal
The researchers aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of recreational therapy programs, including walking, in improving mobility outcomes (e.g., balance, functional performance, fall incidence) for older adults in long-term care.
Results Summary
The study found that walking, along with other recreational activities like tai chi and dancing, improved flexibility, functional mobility, and balance in older adults, with strong to moderate evidence from randomized controlled studies. Program implementation was facilitated by clear instruction, encouragement, and minimal equipment.
Population
Older adults in long-term care.
Effective Dosage
Not specified
Duration
Not specified
Interactions
None mentioned
| Intervention | Direction | Endpoint | Population | Dosage | Impact | Claim # |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
tai chi programs | increase | flexibility | older adults in long-term care | - | improve | #1 |
tai chi programs | increase | functional mobility | older adults in long-term care | - | improve | #2 |
tai chi programs | increase | balance | older adults in long-term care | - | improve | #3 |
walking | increase | flexibility | older adults in long-term care | - | improve | #4 |
walking | increase | functional mobility | older adults in long-term care | - | improve | #5 |
walking | increase | balance | older adults in long-term care | - | improve | #6 |
dancing | increase | flexibility | older adults in long-term care | - | improve | #7 |
dancing | increase | functional mobility | older adults in long-term care | - | improve | #8 |
dancing | increase | balance | older adults in long-term care | - | improve | #9 |
ball games | increase | flexibility | older adults in long-term care | - | improve | #10 |
ball games | increase | functional mobility | older adults in long-term care | - | improve | #11 |
ball games | increase | balance | older adults in long-term care | - | improve | #12 |
recreational therapy programs | increase | mobility | older adults in long-term care | - | elucidated the benefit of | #13 |
The objective of this study was to explore and synthesize evidence on the effectiveness and implementation of recreational therapy programs to enhance mobility outcomes (e.g., balance, functional performance, fall incidence) for older adults in long-term care. The authors conducted a scoping review of 66 studies following the PRISMA guidelines. Two independent reviewers evaluated each article, and a third reviewer resolved discrepancies. Randomized controlled studies provided strong to moderate evidence that tai chi programs, walking, dancing, and ball games improve flexibility, functional mobility, and balance. Studies assessing program implementation highlighted that program delivery was facilitated by clear instruction, encouragement, attendance documentation, and minimal equipment. This review elucidated the benefit of recreational therapy programs on mobility. It also identified the need for customized programs based on individuals' interests and their physical and mental abilities. These findings and recommendations will assist practitioners in designing effective and feasible recreational therapy programs for long-term care.