Impact of a Light Volleyball Intervention Program on Improving Physical Attributes of Older Adults in Hong Kong: Preliminary Study of a Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND: Physical inactivity, which increases the risk of chronic diseases in older adults, is prevalent among older adults in Hong Kong. To address this problem, the Hong Kong government has been proactively promoting active aging. OBJECTIVE: Following the World Health Organization's strategy to prevent chronic diseases in older adults and aligning with the global goal of active aging, this study evaluated the effects of a 16-week light volleyball (LVB) intervention program on the physical health of older adults in Hong Kong. METHODS: A total of 276 participants aged ≥60 years were recruited and randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: an LVB intervention group, a Taichi control group (ie, with light physical activity), and a control group. Tests on components of fitness were conducted before and after the intervention. RESULTS: Participants from the LVB intervention group exhibited significant improvements in lower body strength (F2,272= 7.23, P=.001, η2=.05), agility (F2,272= 6.05, P=.003, η2=.043), and dynamic balance (F2,272= 9.41, P=.001, η2=.065) when compared with those from the Taichi active control group and control group. CONCLUSIONS: To promote active aging among older adults in Hong Kong, the findings of this preliminary study, along with forthcoming follow-up tests, will provide health specialists and practitioners with valuable insights regarding the health benefits of the LVB community program for older adults.