A randomized controlled trial on impact of group exercise programme on fall risk, balance, strength, fear of fall and quality of life of older adults

Abstract

Introduction. A parallel group Randomized Controlled Trial was aimed to determine the impact of a group exercise programme on fall risk and its modifiable risk factors in older adults. Methods. 86 older adults having increased fall risk were assigned to group exercise programme or individualized exercise programme. Intervention consisted of warm up, balance retraining exercises and cooldown and lower limb strengthening exercises derived from Otago Exercise Programme (OEP) forming the core program for 2 times in a week for the period of 10 weeks. Demographic data, Timed Up and Go test, 5-times sit to stand test, sway index and dynamic postural stability, fear of fall and physical and mental components of Quality of Life were assessed before and after 10 weeks and after 6 months of intervention. Results. A significant intra-group effect was demonstrated for both groups at post-intervention in all the outcomes, (p < 0.005). No differences were observed between groups for any outcome (p > 0.005) except SF 12 score which was improved more in experimental group (p > 0.005). Conclusions. Group exercise program was effective in reducing fall risk and fear of fall, improving balance and lower extremity strength and enhancing the quality of life of older adults.