Effects of a six-week structured stretching program on flexibility and self-esteem in adults aged 65-95

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the effects of a structured stretching program on flexibility and self-esteem on older adults. Certain variables were chosen to be examined so that an effective exercise program for the elderly could be established. Thirteen females and two males from the Carroll Heights Apartment Complex in La Crosse, Wisconsin volunteered to participate in a six-week structured stretching program coined "Eldercise" by the researcher. The program was held three times a week for one hour, concentrating on the shoulder, hip, and knee joints. During the pre-test and post-test each subject was given the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and measured to the nearest degree with a goniometer on the shoulder, hip, and knee joints. Six females and two males also from Carroll Heights were in the control group. After the experimental period there was a significant (p < 0.05) increase in five of the eight flexibility measures utilizing Independent "T" test. The measurements that showed improvement were, knee extension, hip flexion, shoulder abduction, shoulder flexion, and external rotation of the shoulder. The Chi-Squared Transformation and Independent "T" Tests showed no significance (p < 0.05) on self-esteem. Attendance was also investigated using the Independent "T" Test. The high attendance group (17-18) improved significantly (p < 0.05) in shoulder flexion when compared to the low attendance group (less than 11). The average attendance group (12-16) improved significantly (p < 0.05) in internal rotation of the shoulder over both the high and low groups. The average attendance group also improved significantly (p < 0.05) in external rotation of the shoulder over the high group.