Search

This study examined the effect of altruistic activity on the self-esteem and life satisfaction of participants (n = 12) at a senior center. The study was a repeated measure, crossover design, with the experimental group serving as its own control. Additional qualitative data were obtained through open-ended interview questions. Statistically significant results were found for life satisfaction change as a consequence of altruistic activity, but not from participation in recreational activity. Qualitative data suggested the altruistic activity impacted more on participant well-being than the recreational activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study was to determine if prolonged exposure to perceptual-motor mismatch increased adaptability and retention of balance in older adults. Sixteen adults, aged 66 to 81 years, were randomized to one of two groups: either the control group (n = 8) or the experimental group (n = 8). Both groups first completed six trials of walking an obstacle course. Participants then trained twice a week for 4 weeks. In the training, the control group walked on a treadmill for 20 minutes while viewing a static visual scene and the experimental group walked on a treadmill for 20 minutes while viewing a rotating visual scene that provided a perceptual-motor mismatch. Following training, both groups were post-tested on the obstacle course. The experimental group moved faster through the obstacle course with fewer penalties. This training effect was retained for 4 weeks. Exposure to perceptual-motor mismatch induced an adaptive training effect that improved balance and locomotor control in older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]