Abstract des Autors

The present study examined the importance of enhancing cardiovascular fitness in aged women following hip replacement surgery, whose post-operative recovery may be jeopardised by insufficient rehabilitation. The subjects of the present research, who had all undergone hip replacement 12 months previously, were randomly assigned to a control and an exercise group. The exercisers followed a 3 month general training programme. All the subjects were tested at entry to the study, and at the end of the 3 month period for the peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and maximal walking speed. Both parameters significantly increased in the experimental group after the 3 months of training. The controls did not show any significant change, suggesting positive effects of training in the exercise group. The present results suggest the incorporation of more physical exercise in the current rehabilitation practices to enhance health and to prolonge independence in the elderly. However, more research is needed to establish precise guidelines for the enhancement of physical fitness in the elderly, and in particular with hip replacement patients. Verf.-Referat