Improving Elderly Functional Capacity and Quality of Life through Breather Trainer: A Narrative Review

ALAA M. EL-MOATASEM, Ph.D.** And DONIA M. ELMASRY, Ph.D.**, AYA ELBAGORY, M.Sc.*; NESREEN ELNAHAS, Ph.D.**; SAMIR A. ALGAZZAR, Ph.D.***;

doi:10.21608/mjcu.2025.464236

Improving Elderly Functional Capacity and Quality of Life through Breather Trainer: A Narrative Review

Document Type : Original Article

Author

AYA ELBAGORY, M.Sc.*; NESREEN ELNAHAS, Ph.D.**; SAMIR A. ALGAZZAR, Ph.D.***; ALAA M. EL-MOATASEM, Ph.D.** and DONIA M. ELMASRY, Ph.D.**

The Department of Physical Therapy, Monsha’et El Kanater Hospital, Giza, Egypt*, Department of Physical Therapy for Cardiovascular/Respiratory Disorder and Geriatrics, Faculty of Physical Therapy** and Physical Therapy College, Faculty of Medicine, Galala University***

10.21608/mjcu.2025.464236

Abstract

Background: The growing elderly population faces chal-lenges in maintaining functional capacity and quality of life. Respiratory dysfunctions are prevalent, reducing independ-ence and increasing healthcare burdens. Aim of Study: To explore the effects of the Breather Train-er, a respiratory muscle training device, on enhancing dia-phragmatic mobility, functional capacity, and health-related quality of life in older adults. Material and Methods: This narrative review synthesizes findings from previous studies and trials that evaluated the use of the Breather Trainer in elderly populations, examining its impact on pulmonary function tests, emotional well-being, and quality of life metrics. Results: Consistent use of the Breather Trainer signifi-cantly improves maximal inspiratory pressure, peak expiratory flow, and respiratory endurance. Improvements were noted in socio-family quality of life, while mental and physical do-mains showed marginal gains. The device’s low cost and ease of home use make it suitable for long-term implementation in elderly care. Conclusion: Breather Trainers offer a promising, non-in-vasive approach to enhance the health and independence of older adults. Their integration into elderly rehabilitation programs is recommended. Further research should explore IoT-integrated training solutions for scalable impact.

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