The Effects of PACE Program on Self-efficacy, Pain and Joint Function in Korean Immigrant Elderly with Osteoarthritis.

PACE 프로그램이 퇴행성관절염 노인의 자기효능감과 통증 및 관절기능에 미치는 효과 - 미국이민 한국노인을 중심으로 -

The PACE (People nth Arthritis Can Exercise) is an exercise program developed by the Arthritis Foundation to improve muscle strength and joint flexibility for patients with arthritis. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of PACE program on self-efficacy, pain, and joint function in the Korean immigrant elderly. The PACE program was held twice a week for 6 weeks for Korean immigrant elderly who had osteoarthritis. Twenty four subjects completed the program, who were recruited in two places : 10 elderly in a senior residential apartment, and 14 elderly in a senior center supported by Congregated Meal Program for Korean Elderly. Self-efficacy(Sherer et al., 1982), pain severity(by using Visual Analogue Scale), and number of painful joints were measured before and after the PACE program. To examine the joint flexibility and strengthening, the followings were measured : the extent of the upward arm reach in both sides(flexibility of shoulder), the ability to touch fingertips of the both hands in back pat and rub(flexibility of arm), the degree of range of motion(ROM) of both ankles in their dorsiflexion(flexibility of ankle) and plantarflexion with standing with toe(strengthening of ankle), and the degree of knee extension. Wilcoxon signed rank test was used for data analysis and the significance of the differences in the variables was examined to compare the data obtained before and after the PACE program. After the PACE, followings were found : 1. Self-efficacy was significantly increased. 2. Pain severity and number of painful Joints was significantly decreased. 3. The flexibility of both shoulders and arms were significantly improved, but the flexibility of knee was not changed. 4. The flexibility and strengthening of both ankle was significantly improved. In conclusion, PACE was clearly proved to be an effective exercise program to promote self-efficacy, to reduce pain, and to enhance joint function in the elderly with osteoarthritis. It is suggested that the PACE program should be recommended as one of the useful and appropriate nursing interventions for elderly with osteoarthritis.