Learning to Improve Mobility and Quality of Life in a Well Elderly Population

The Benefits of Awareness Through Movement

Authors

  • James Stephens PhD, PT, CFP, Temple University, PA
  • Christopher Pendergast BA, MPT, Widener University, PA
  • Beth Ann Roller BA, MPT, Widener University, PA
  • Robert Scott Weiskittel BS, MPT, Widener University, PA

Keywords:

Feldenkrais, mobility, coordination, elderly, alternative learning method, Awareness Through Movement

Abstract

Objectives: This study tested the hypothesis that an alternative movement learning method, Awareness Through Movement, would produce improvements in coordination, mobility, economy of movement and quality of life in older adults.

Methods: A group of 31 older adults was studied using a prospective, repeated measures control group design. The SF-36 was used to assess health status - quality of life. Video motion analysis was used to collect data on walking and on a floor to stand transfer movement.

Results: Coordination of the transfer movement improved significantly in the experimental group. Vitality and mental health scores also improved significantly in this group. Interesting differences between young-old and old-old changes were observed.

Conclusions: Awareness Through Movement may be an additional effective method for pursuing the objectives of Healthy People 2010.

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Published

2005-01-01

How to Cite

Stephens, J., Pendergast, C., Roller, B. A., & Weiskittel, R. S. (2005). Learning to Improve Mobility and Quality of Life in a Well Elderly Population: The Benefits of Awareness Through Movement. Feldenkrais Research Journal, 2. Retrieved from https://feldenkraisresearchjournal.org/index.php/journal/article/view/98

Issue

Volume 2 (2005): Choosing the Path of Least Resistance

Section

Articles