Elders Exercise and Behavioral Program: Effects on Balance and Fear of Falls

• Published in: Physical and Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics
• Main Author: Azizan A.; Justine M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor and Francis Ltd. 2015
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-84947912828&doi=10.3109%2f02703181.2015.1093060&partnerID=40&md5=a1e5b0b40e0420eca167b1643f68d319

Aim: This controlled quasi-experimental study examined the effects of combined behavioral and exercise interventions on balance performance and fear of falls (FoF) among community-dwelling elderly. Methods: A total of 62 elderly (age = 63.5 ± 3.9 years) were divided into three groups, namely, (1) EBG (six-week exercise and five-week behavioral interventions), (2) EG (exercise only), and (3) CG (control). Balance and FoF were measured by the Timed Up and Go test and the modified Falls Efficacy Scales, respectively, at baseline and post-interventions. Results: Significant findings were found in the time effect (F = 40.56, p = 0.00), time and group interactions (F = 51.48, p = 0.00), and between-group effect (F = 20.85, p = 0.00) for balance. Similarly, significant findings were found in the time effect (F = 101.78, p = 0.00), time and group interactions (F = 33.39, p = 0.00), and between-group effect (F = 29.19, p = 0.00) for FoF. EBG showed significantly higher mean changes in both measures. Conclusion: The combination of behavioral and exercise interventions may positively affect balance control and reduce FoF among the elderly. © 2015 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.