Impact Of Walking And The OTAGO Exercise Program On Improving Balance Parameters In The Elderly

Abstract

There will likely be a rise in fall rates as the population ages. This will impact our society and put more strain on healthcare systems by increasing the number of unintentional injuries and injury-related deaths. According to Zijlstra et al. (2007), falls have a significant psychological impact on individuals, frequently leading to diminished confidence, decreased functional activity, deconditioning, and an elevated risk of falls. Estimated costs of fall-related damage to older adults owing to demographic changes in Australia (2003) predict that by 2051, fall-related injuries, which currently account for 5% of the country's overall health budget, would triple and cost the Australian health system about $1,375 million annually. Exercise and other modifications in lifestyle can potentially reduce the risk of many physical falls (Gregg et al., 2000; Sherrington et al., 2011). The current recommendations for physical exercise among older persons, which include elements of aerobic, resistance, and balance training, are not met by many of them. According to Chodzko-Zajko et al. (2009), the American College of Sports Medicine (ASCM) advises older persons to engage in aerobic, muscle-strengthening, and flexibility exercises. People who have mobility issues or are at risk of falling should also engage in certain activities designed to enhance their balance. We determined that the study's subjects would be third-age individuals (over 65) who reside in assisted living facilities located in Tirana's district and city due to the issues that this demographic faces. Keywords: falls prevention, ageing, nursing home support services, quality of life, older people, walking, OTAGO exercise program, balance, preventive care.