Florida Home Health Aide Competency Practice Test

What is the main purpose of range of motion exercises?

1. To improve muscle strength.

2. To maintain joint flexibility.

3. To reduce fatigue.

4. To increase heart rate.

The correct answer is: To maintain joint flexibility.

The main purpose of range of motion exercises is to maintain joint flexibility. These exercises involve moving joints through their full range of motion to prevent stiffness and maintain the health of the joints. This is particularly important for individuals who may have limited mobility due to age, injury, or medical conditions. Maintaining flexibility helps ensure that individuals can perform daily activities more easily and reduces the risk of injury or complications from immobility. Over time, a lack of movement can lead to muscle shortening and tightening, which can adversely affect joint function. Range of motion exercises counter this by actively promoting the endurance of the joints' mobility. While improving muscle strength, reducing fatigue, and increasing heart rate can be benefits of physical activities, they are not the primary focus of range of motion exercises. Instead, these exercises are specifically designed to keep joints flexible and help maintain or improve an individual's overall functional abilities.