In 2005, Mary Lou Galantino, et. al., conducted study about Living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) those are presents numerous challenges, often affecting both physical and mental well-being. In this context, exploring effective interventions for improving the quality of life (QOL) and functional outcomes of individuals with AIDS is of paramount importance. To address this, a randomized clinical trial was conducted to investigate the potential benefits of two group-based interventions: aerobic exercise (EX) and tai chi (TC).

This study employed a randomized clinical trial design to assess the effects of aerobic exercise and tai chi on functional outcomes and QOL in individuals with AIDS. The trial involved 38 participants with advanced HIV/AIDS, who were randomly assigned to one of three groups: aerobic exercise, tai chi, or a control group. The experimental groups engaged in their respective interventions twice a week over an 8-week period.

Conducted at two outpatient infectious disease clinics in a mid-Atlantic state, the study included individuals with advanced HIV/AIDS. The participants were divided into three groups, with each group assigned to a different intervention or the control condition.

The study assessed multiple outcomes to evaluate the impact of the interventions. QOL was measured using the Medical Outcomes Short Form (MOS-HIV) and the Spirituality Well-Being Scale (SWB). Functional measures included balance (functional reach), flexibility (sit and reach), and endurance (sit-up test). Overall physical function was evaluated using the physical performance test (PPT), while psychological changes were examined using the Profile of Mood States (POMS). Qualitative data were also collected through subjects’ journals, focus groups, and nonparticipant observation to capture the patients’ perspectives on these measurements.

Data analysis encompassed 38 subjects, distributed across the three groups. Significant improvements were observed in the exercise groups in terms of overall functional measures (p < 0.001). The MOS-HIV highlighted a noteworthy difference in the overall health subscale (p = 0.04), while the POMS indicated significant effects for confusion-bewilderment (p = 0.000) and tension-anxiety (p = 0.005). The qualitative analysis unveiled three prominent themes: positive physical changes, enhanced psychological coping, and improved social interactions.

The findings from this study underscore the potential benefits of both aerobic exercise and tai chi in improving physiological parameters, functional outcomes, and QOL among individuals with advanced HIV/AIDS. The group-based nature of these interventions provides a valuable context for managing chronic HIV disease by fostering socialization and support. Furthermore, this study sets the foundation for a larger randomized controlled trial aimed at examining both short- and long-term effects of group exercise interventions in the management of advanced HIV disease. Given the positive outcomes observed, further research is warranted to explore additional accessible, safe, and cost-effective exercise interventions tailored to the needs of the HIV population.

Reference: Galantino, M. L., Shepard, K., Krafft, L., Laperriere, A., Ducette, J., Sorbello, A., & Farrar, J. T. (2005). The effect of group aerobic exercise and tai chi on functional outcomes and quality of life for persons living with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Journal of Alternative & Complementary Medicine: Research on Paradigm, Practice, and Policy, 11(6), 1085-1092.