Balance Enhancement in Older Adults: Is Functional-Task Training Better Than Resistance Training in Enhancing Balance in Older Adults?

Rafi Mohammed,Sd Shahanawaz,Shyam Jungade,Pallavi Dangat,Gaurav Bhatnagar

doi:10.7759/cureus.19364

Abstract

Background and purposeThe effects of various exercise training programs on balance in older adults are well established. This study aimed to compare the effect of functional-task training with resistance training in improving balance performance in older adults.MethodsA total of 100 community-dwelling older adults aged 65 years and above were randomly allocated into two groups: functional-task training (FTT) group and resistance training (RT) group. The FTT group (n = 50) performed functional task exercises and the RT group (n = 50) performed resistance exercises three times a week for 12 weeks. Balance was evaluated before and after the trial using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test.ResultsA total of 87 subjects who completed the study were analyzed. Both the groups showed a significant change in BBS and TUG test (p < 0.05) from baseline to 12 weeks. However, post-intervention analysis between the groups showed a significant difference in both the BBS and TUG test (p < 0.05), i.e. improvement in the FTT group was better than the RE group at the end of training.ConclusionBoth the FTT and RT were effective in improving balance. However, the improvement achieved by the FTT group was better than the RT group.

Highlights

Adults aged 65 years and above represent one of the fastest-growing segments of Indian as well as of the international population
A total of 87 subjects who completed the study were analyzed. Both the groups showed a significant change in Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) test (p < 0.05) from baseline to 12 weeks
Post-intervention analysis between the groups showed a significant difference in both the BBS and TUG test (p < 0.05), i.e. improvement in the functional-task training (FTT) group was better than the RE group at the end of training

Summary

Introduction

Adults aged 65 years and above represent one of the fastest-growing segments of Indian as well as of the international population. Balance discrepancy is one of the major risk factors for falls among older adults. Age-related changes in the three sensory systems, i.e. vestibular [9], visual [10], and somatosensory [11], interfere with the ability to balance effectively. Other factors like decreased lower-body strength, coordination, and flexibility contribute to a decrease in balance ability [12]. These changes affect reaction time in the elderly and increase balance-related issues. Activities such as reaching or bending involve a shift of the center of gravity (COG) of the body within the base of support (BOS). This study aimed to compare the effect of functional-task training with resistance training in improving balance performance in older adults

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