An evaluation of a physical activity programme designed for elderly people.

Summary This study is an assessment of a programme of physical activity for the elderly. The programme offers to residents of retirement homes several physical activities designed to avoid falls, and light gym regimes. The programme is evaluated using a randomised controlled trial protocol in around 30 retirement homes in Europe. The results show a clear reduction in falls and a significant improvement in subjective health indicators. A cost-benefits analysis suggests that the introduction of such programmes could be very positive, thanks to the reduction of costs generated by falls by old people in residence, notwithstanding the benefits for their wellbeing.