"Mais e Melhores Anos" - Exercício clínico O impacto do exercício físico na qualidade de vida de pessoas com multicomorbilidades: uma abordagem num projeto comunitário

Abstract

Introduction: This report was developed as part of the Dissertation/Internship/Project course in the 2nd Cycle in Physical Activity, Exercise, and Health - Specialization in Exercise in Clinical Contexts. It was carried out in the municipality of Vila Nova de Famalicão, in the context of a community project entitled "More and Better Years" in the context of rehabilitation. Internship objectives: Integration and understanding of how exercise physiologists/physical therapists work in a community exercise program; Transfer of knowledge obtained during the first year of the master's degree to a real-world context; Stimulate critical thinking skills in older to improve and strengthen the work performed; Perform assessments, make recommendations, and develop physical exercise programs according to patients' conditions. Strengthen the ability to apply literature review in a practical context; Increase data treatment and analysis skills; Develop skills in intervention and communication between participants and other professionals Methodology: The study analyzed the effects of physical exercise on quality of life through hydrotherapy and hydrotherapy combined with weight training. Participants were evaluated and assigned to groups defined by the project. The intervention took place over 17 weeks of supervised exercise. Results: The intervention promoted significant improvements in upper limb muscle strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, and the mental component of quality of life. In contrast, no relevant changes were observed in body composition, while handgrip strength and single leg balance decreased significantly. Functionality showed a slight improvement, without statistical significance. Adherence was generally satisfactory, higher in the group undergoing combined hydrotherapy and weight training and influenced the magnitude of the responses obtained. Conclusion: It was concluded that physical exercise plays a decisive role in promoting the health, functionality, and quality of life of older adults, being an essential strategy for active and successful aging.