Specialization Exercise for the Older Adults II

Specialization / Direction

Knowledge Deepening / Consolidation

Knowledge Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: • Understand the fundamental principles and techniques of laboratory-based balance assessment. • Recognize the specific needs for adapting exercise programs for older adults with musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and metabolic conditions. • Correlate physical exercise with cognitive function in older age. • Identify appropriate sources of scientific literature for the design of specialized exercise programs. Skills Students will be able to: • Evaluate and analyze laboratory balance data (force platform, baropodometry). • Apply fitness assessment protocols for older adults. • Record and process data using technological tools. • Design targeted exercise programs based on the individual needs of older participants. Competences • Work independently in assessment, data analysis, and intervention. • Adapt exercise interventions based on pathological parameters. • Investigate scientific literature and translate findings into practical interventions. • Scientifically justify and document their methodological choices.

Purpose and Description This course focuses on developing students' skills in assessing balance and functional capacity in older adults through laboratory tools, as well as applying specialized exercise protocols that consider pathological conditions such as musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and metabolic disorders. Students are trained in data analysis and in designing individualized exercise programs that promote autonomy and quality of life for the elderly. Special emphasis is placed on a research-based approach to scientific literature and on translating theoretical knowledge into practical exercise interventions tailored to the needs of the aging population. Practical application is carried out in Open Care Centers for the Elderly (KAΠΗ), offering students the opportunity to implement in practice the knowledge and skills acquired during the course. Course Objectives • Familiarization with laboratory techniques for balance assessment • Analysis and recording of measurements using modern technological tools • Design of specialized exercise interventions for pathological conditions • Correlation of exercise with cognitive function and psychosomatic health • Development of research skills and evidence-based practice • Training in the design and implementation of programs in KAPI centers Course Content This course combines theoretical lectures, laboratory training, and practical application in Senior Citizens’ Centers (K.A.Π.Η), aiming to develop students’ skills in assessment, design, and implementation of personalized exercise programs for older adults. Students learn to apply research findings in practice, promoting autonomy and quality of life for the elderly. 1st Week Content: Theory: Interaction between the Central Nervous System and the musculoskeletal system – Assessment of physical fitness. Practical: Practical training at the Senior Citizens’ Centers (K.A.Π.Η.) Learning Outcomes: Understanding the interaction of systems and assessing physical fitness (Knowledge – Skill) 2nd Week Content: Theory: Functionality of older adults – tests and indicators. Practical: Functionality assessment in real-life conditions. Application at the Senior Citizens’ Centers (K.A.Π.Η.) Learning Outcomes: Assessment of older adults’ functionality (Skill – Competence) 3rd Week Content: Theory: Methodology for balance assessment. Laboratory: Presentation of laboratory equipment and assessment protocols. Practical: Implementation of exercise programs at the Senior Citizens’ Centers (K.A.Π.Η.) Learning Outcomes: Understanding techniques and using balance equipment (Knowledge – Skill) 4th Week Content: Theory: Factors affecting balance. Laboratory: Performing basic balance measurements. Practical: Implementation of exercise programs at the Senior Citizens’ Centers (K.A.Π.Η.) Learning Outcomes: Application of balance measurement protocols (Skill) 5th Week Content: Theory: Interpretation and analysis of balance data. Laboratory: Processing and recording data. Practical: Implementation of exercise programs at the Senior Citizens’ Centers (K.A.Π.Η.) Learning Outcomes: Analysis and interpretation of balance data (Skill) 6th Week Content: Theory: Aging, muscle fatigue, and endurance – Assessment of muscular endurance. Practical: Implementation of exercise programs at the Senior Citizens’ Centers (K.A.Π.Η.) Learning Outcomes: Understanding the effects of aging and applying assessment methods (Knowledge – Skill) 7th Week Content: Theory: Cardiovascular diseases – limitations and guidelines. Designing safe exercise programs. Practical: Implementation of exercise programs at the Senior Citizens’ Centers (K.A.Π.Η.) Learning Outcomes: Designing exercise for cardiovascular limitations (Knowledge – Competence) 8th Week Content: Theory: Musculoskeletal disorders – exercise adaptations. Practical: Implementation of exercise programs at the Senior Citizens’ Centers (K.A.Π.Η.) Learning Outcomes: Designing adapted programs (Skill – Competence) 9th Week Content: Theory: Improving muscle strength. Designing safe strength training programs. Practical: Implementation of exercise programs at the Senior Citizens’ Centers (K.A.Π.Η.) Learning Outcomes: Organization and implementation of strength training programs (Skill – Competence) 10th Week Content: Theory: Aerobic exercise for older adults – Organization and implementation of aerobic activities. Practical: Implementation of exercise programs at the Senior Citizens’ Centers (K.A.Π.Η.) Learning Outcomes: Development of aerobic exercise programs (Skill – Competence) 11th Week Content: Theory: Importance and techniques of stretching. Practical: Implementation of stretching programs at the Senior Citizens’ Centers (K.A.Π.Η.) Learning Outcomes: Execution and teaching of stretching exercises (Skill – Competence) 12th Week Content: Theory: Use of Exergames for exercise in older adults. Practical: Exercise using Exergames at the Senior Citizens’ Centers (K.A.Π.Η.) Learning Outcomes: Integration of technological tools (Skill – Competence) 13th Week Content: Theory: Exercise & cognitive function – Review of learning outcomes. Practical: Exercise applications and cognitive enhancement at the Senior Citizens’ Centers (K.A.Π.Η.) Learning Outcomes: Linking physical and cognitive improvement – overall evaluation (Competence) Teaching Methods • Lectures using audiovisual material • Laboratory practice (force platform, baropodometry) • Case study analysis • Group projects • Practical application in KAPI centers • Reading and analysis of scientific literature Learning Resources & Tools • Lecture notes • PowerPoint slide presentations • Books and scientific journal articles • Multimedia materials (videos on assessment and exercise techniques) • Access to laboratory equipment and data analysis software

Laboratory measurements, Balance assessment and evaluation, alternative forms of exercise

01-07-2025