Effects of the BeHaS Exercise Program on Hand strength, Depression and Life Satisfaction in Institutionalized Elders with CVA

Seo, Eun Hui; Park, Seon Il; Kim, Jong Im

Abstract

PURPOSE
This study was done to identify the effects of the BeHaS exercise program consisting of exercise, education, and cognitive supports on the hand strength, depression and life satisfaction in institutionalized elderly people with CVA. METHOD: A quasi-experimental design with an experimental group (n=18) and a control group (n=18) was used. The elders in the experimental group participated in the program once a week for eight weeks. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square and t-test with SPSS /Win 18.0.
RESULTS
Hypothesis 1 was supported as the hand strength of the elders in experimental group significantly increased compared to those in the control group. Hypothesis 2 was also supported as depression scores for elders in the experimental group significantly decreased compared to those in the control group. Hypothesis 3 was supported as life satisfaction scores for elders in the experimental group significantly increased compared to those in the control group.
CONCLUSION
The results of this study indicate that the BeHaS exercise program can play a useful role in improving depression and life satisfaction in institutionalized elderly people with CVA.