Effets de la pratique de la gymnastique d’entretien chez des seniors sur la condition physique,la fonction cognitive et la prise médicamenteuse

Objective. – The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of regular gymnastic activity practice on fitness, cognitive function and medication in healthy elderly women.Method. – Twenty-four women were separated into 2 groups, a sedentary group and a gymnastic group. In order to be included in the gymnastic group, women needed to have participated for at least 2 consecutive years in gymnastic sessions for a minimum of 10 months per year. Subjects were on average aged 60.3 ± 1.4 years. All the women filled in clinical and physical activities questionnaires. Then the following tests were taken: Martinet, 6 min walking test, 3 static balance tests and a memory test.Results. – Walking speed (P < 0.01) and distance of walking (P < 0.05) were significantly higher in the gymnastic group in comparison with the sedentary women and the consumption of medicine was significantly lower in active compared with sedentary women (P < 0.05). So, regular gymnastic practice reduces the consumption of medicine and could preserve autonomy by maintening an optimal walking speed, thus decreasing the risk of falls.