Background: As Indonesia’s aging population grows, frailty-related cognitive and muscular decline poses a significant challenge. Online exercise programs offer a low-cost, accessible solution for home-bound older adults. This was the first study evaluates a 12-week online exercise intervention using handgrip strength, Quality of Life (QoL), and biomarkers (IGF-1, CTSB, and BDNF).

Methods: Fifty-four subjects (mean age 71.36 years) were recruited from a nursing home and two senior communities. Participants engaged in a one-hour weekly online exercise session for 12 weeks. Twenty-six subjects were excluded due to non-compliance, leaving 28 for final analysis.

Results: In subjects <70 years, CTSB levels significantly decreased (-30.75 ng/ml, p=0.041), handgrip strength (0.47 kg, p=0.944), IGF-1 (6.33 ng/ml, p=0.110) and BDNF (3.55 ng/ml, p=0.286) were slightly increased. In subjects ≥70 years, handgrip strength increased by 1.34 kg (p=0.703), but IGF-1 (-7.37ng/ml, p=0.072) and BDNF (-3.57ng/ml, p=0.088) levels decreased; these results were not statistically significant. Handgrip strength showed a positive correlation with QoL (r=0.388, p=0.041). Notably, QoL significantly improved (p=0.01) among nursing home residents compared to community-dwelling participants.

Conclusion: While a one-hour weekly session is insufficient to significantly improve muscular or cognitive biomarkers, low-to-moderate intensity online exercise is a feasible intervention for older adults in Indonesia. Such programs significantly enhance Quality of Life, particularly in senior housing settings where social activity is limited. Future studies should explore increased frequency to achieve greater physiological impact.

Keywords: elderly, online exercise, cognitive function, IGF-1, CTSB, BDNF, quality of life

Anna Meiliana is a scientist, lecturer, and longevity enthusiast dedicated to the intersection of molecular science of metabolism and immunology. She currently serves as a Lecturer at the Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Padjadjaran, where she conducts research in obesity, immunology and healthy aging. With a Scopus H-index of 8, she is a recognized contributor to the scientific community. Since 2005, Anna has also served as the Scientific Assistant for the Chairman at PT Prodia Widyahusada, Tbk, where she prepares high-level scientific materials and publications. Her academic foundation is extensive, holding a Doctoral Degree in Biomedicine and a Master of Public Health. Her excellence in the field was notably recognized in 2014 when she received the Young Scientist Award from the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry. Beyond her academic and clinical work, Anna is a certified RYT200 Yoga Instructor specializing in Vinyasa and Yoga for Seniors. Through her YouTube channel, @nanayogalive, she promotes a life of quality, believing that true longevity stems from combining molecular insights with daily wellness practices