Malbut-Shennan, Kathryn Elizabeth; (2000) Adaptations to aerobic training in old age. Doctoral thesis (Ph.D.), University College London (United Kingdom).

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Abstract

Are direct measurements of maximal aerobic power (VO2 max) feasible and reproducible in the 'oldest old'? 26 men and women (79 to 87 years) performed three progressive cycle ergometer tests. Criteria for attainment of VO2 max were fulfilled by 21 subjects on at least one occasion. Measures of VO2 max were obtained in 10 subjects at 2 test points, no significant differences were seen between repeated tests for any variables measured. Tests to determine VO2 max in the 'oldest old' are feasible and reproducible Can maximal aerobic power be increased through endurance training in the 'oldest old'? How do responses differ from young subjects trained using the same relative intensity? Data were obtained from 19 old (80 to 91 years) and 21 young subjects, who completed 24 weeks of endurance training. Measurements were taken before and after a control period and following 12 and 24 weeks of training. A significant improvement in VO2 max was seen in the old women after 24, but not 12 weeks of training. VO2 max increased in the young women after both 12 and 24 weeks of training. Training had no effect on the VO2 max of the old men. Possible explanations for this finding are discussed. Even very elderly women can improve VO2 max with endurance training, but improvements may take longer to occur than in young people. Does endurance training improve the quality of life of the 'oldest old'. A selection of questionnaires to measure different components of quality of life were completed by the old subjects before and after the control period and following training. Training resulted in significant improvements in self perceived pain levels, morale and some aspects of mood. However, some improvements were also seen following the control period, suggesting social contact may have been responsible for some of the improvements seen.

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