Effects of Multi-component Exercise on Physical Performance and Sleep Quality in Older Adults

This quasi-experimental study evaluated the effects of an 8-week multi-component group exercise program on physical performance and sleep quality among community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan. Participants were recruited from four community care sites in central Taiwan. The intervention group participated in a structured exercise program consisting of aerobic, resistance, balance, and flexibility training conducted at a university-affiliated senior fitness club, while the control group maintained their usual community activities. Primary outcomes included physical performance and sleep quality. Physical performance was assessed using gait speed, chair stand, arm curl, grip strength, balance, and walking tests. Sleep quality was measured using the Chinese version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (CPSQI). Heart rate recovery was evaluated as a secondary outcome. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted to determine the effectiveness of the intervention.

Inclusion Criteria: * Community-dwelling older adults aged 65 to 90 years. * Able to communicate in Mandarin or Taiwanese. * Able to participate in exercise activities. * Provided written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Contraindications to exercise, including recent myocardial infarction, acute cardiovascular events, acute infection, or renal disease symptoms. * Use of ambulatory assistive devices. * Regular physical activity exceeding 150 minutes per week. * Positive responses indicating elevated exercise risk on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q).