Effectiveness of multidisciplinary interventions on the functional capacity of older adults
Keywords:
aging; aged; exercise; humans; older adults; quality of lifeAbstract
Introduction: Population aging represents a growing challenge for the preservation of functional capacity in older adults. It is a natural and multifactorial process that accompanies human beings throughout their lives and involves progressive transformations in physical, psychological, and social domains. Understanding its complexity is essential for designing strategies that promote active and healthy aging.
Objective: To determine the impact of multidisciplinary interventions—specifically in physical and occupational therapy—on the improvement of functional capacity in older adults.
Methods: A review of randomized controlled trials was conducted using the Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Following the PRISMA-P 12 guidelines, randomized controlled trials with high methodological quality were selected, using the PEDro scale with a score ≥ 7, focusing on studies involving a multidisciplinary approach to the functional capacity of older adults.
Results: Eight randomized controlled trials published between 2014 and 2024 were included, demonstrating the effectiveness of multidisciplinary interventions in occupational therapy and physiotherapy in enhancing the functional capacity of older adults.
Conclusions: The approach to older adults that focuses on preserving their functional capacity integrates various intervention modalities, including occupational therapy and physiotherapy. These strategies are essential for reducing risks, preventing errors, and minimizing harm, while significantly contributing to the prevention of functional decline and the promotion of greater autonomy and independence in this population.
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