The Effect of Different Exercise Training Types on Functionality in Older Fallers

Abstract

Background: Fall is one of the most common geriatric syndromes in the elderly population. It is important to determine the most effective exercise training in elderly individuals who are at risk of falling. Aim: To investigate the effects of different exercise trainings on functionality in older fallers. Method: A total of 30 older adults, 16 females and 14 males, were enrolled in this randomized controlled trial. The older adults were divided into 3 groups: vestibular exercise (VE), posturography balance exercise (PBE), and square step exercise (SSE) groups. All groups received VE training. Sensory Organization Test (SOT), Adaptation Test (ADT), Fall Efficacy Scale (FES), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Vestibular Disorders Activities of Daily Life Scale (VADL), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale–Older Adults Module (WHOQOL-Old) were administered before and at the end of the 24 training sessions. Results: The MoCA and the composite balance score of the SOT were improved in the PBE and SSE groups and the FES in all groups. According to multiple comparison analyses, toes up in the VE and PBE groups, toes down of the ADT in the PBE group, VADL in the PBE and SSE groups, the WHOQOL-Old in all groups significantly improved (P < .010). Conclusion: VE training alone is not sufficient for older fallers. A combination of PBE and SSE training, which was applied 3 times a week for 8 weeks, was more effective in improving functionality in older fallers.