effect of progressive muscle relaxation on social performance and quality of life in aging

Objectives: Aging is an important stage of life that is influenced by several factors such as mobility and exercise as they can promote healthy aging. The present study aimed to examine the effects of progressive muscle relaxation on the quality of life of elderly people living in Shahr-e-Kord, Iran. Methods & Materials: In this quasi-experimental study, the sample was randomly divided into two groups: test and control. Participants in the test group were instructed to systematically tense muscle groups in a specific part of their body. They were then required to take a slow and deep breath and squeeze the muscles as hard as possible for five seconds followed by quickly relaxing the tensed muscles. Each session lasted for approximately 45 minutes. The intervention was implemented for three days in a week spanning across three months.  Results: The results showed progressive muscle relaxation and enhanced quality of life in the intervention group. In addition, statistically significant differences were noted in the mean scores of physical performance, restricted activity after physical problem, energy, socially function, physical pain, overall hygiene, and quality of life between the intervention and control groups. Conclusion: The findings of this study revealed that the progressive muscle relaxation technique can effectively reduce the duration of rehabilitation, days of hospitalization and healthcare costs, as well as improve the quality of life, mood, and mental health in the elderly people.