Abstract
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) improves functional capacity, muscle power and physical performance in older adults with and without comorbidities. The aim of this study was to explore the effectiveness of HIIT as a method for reducing major fall risk factors (balance, muscle strength and physical activity) in older adults. A systematic literature search was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. A computerized search was conducted using electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, APA PsycInfo, Web of Science, Scopus, PEDro, and AgeLine) published up to July 2021. Eleven papers (9 studies) of moderate quality (mean of 5.5 in Pedro scale) involving 328 healthy older adults met the inclusion criteria. Studies were characterized by high heterogeneity in terms of methodology, HIIT modality and protocol, subject characteristics, and outcome measures. Results indicate that HIIT cannot be recommended as a single modality for fall prevention in older adults due to insufficient data and no consensus among the studies. HIIT appears to be a safe and well-tolerated supplement to proven fall prevention programs, due to its effects on lower limb strength reflected in functional performance tests, and on dynamic balance and subjective balance perception. However, caution is warranted following HIIT, especially after the first session, due to possible temporary instability.
Highlights
Falls are a major global public health challenge, causing a substantial and increasing health and economic burden on older adults and society at large [1,2,3]
The results demonstrated that a High-intensity interval training (HIIT) program involving the upper- and lower-body HIIT had a small effect on the physical, general health, vitality, mental health, and bodily pain domains of the Short Form-36 health questionnaire (SF-36) compared to the nonexercise control group
Since there is insufficient data and no consensus among the trials regarding the effect of HIIT, it is difficult to conclude whether HIIT is an effective method for reducing fall risk or improving balance in healthy older adults
Summary
Falls are a major global public health challenge, causing a substantial and increasing health and economic burden on older adults and society at large [1,2,3]. Organization (WHO) developed a model that categorizes fall risk factors into four dimensions: biological, socioeconomic, behavioral, and environmental [1]. Behavioral factors have the highest impact on fall frequency [1]. Lifestyle behavioral changes, such as increasing physical activity, have the potential to prevent falls [4]. According to the WHO guidelines, older adults should engage in the general program recommended to adults (18–64 years old). Such a program should include at least
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