THE BENEFITS OF FUNCTIONAL TRAINING FOR THE ELDERLY

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the benefits of functional training in promoting health, well-being, and functional autonomy in older adults. To this end, a descriptive and exploratory narrative literature review was conducted, including articles published between 2015 and 2025, in Portuguese, available in full and free of charge in the Virtual Health Library (VHL). After applying the inclusion criteria, ten studies addressing the effects of functional training on older adults were selected. The results showed that functional training promotes significant gains in muscle strength, balance, mobility, flexibility, and cardiorespiratory fitness, factors that directly contribute to maintaining functional independence. Furthermore, a reduced risk of falls, improved performance of activities of daily living, and positive effects on psychological and social well-being, such as increased self-esteem and socialization, were observed. It is concluded that functional training is an effective and safe intervention for older adults, representing an accessible strategy for healthy aging. The research objective and problem were satisfactorily met. However, the importance of new research that defines specific protocols regarding the intensity, duration and frequency of exercises for this population is highlighted.