Exercise program to improve balance: Intervention protocol

Abstract

NTRODUCTION: With the increasing of age, neuromuscular deficits can result in impaired physical performance and increased risk of falls. Some intrinsic factors of falling risk, related to aging, are decreases in balance and strength performance, as well as cognitive decline (Gshwind et al., 2013). Balance is important to maintain posture and prevent falls. Specific balance exercises can help fight balance deficits and gait instabilities, reducing the risk of falls in older adults (Howe et al., 2011). However, more studies related to the prescription of physical exercise programs designed to improve the balance of the elderly are needed so that they can be easily implemented. PURPOSE: Evaluate the effects of a fall prevention program on balance and strength variables. Effects related to the detraining time will also be evaluated. METHODOLOGY: Older adults over 65 years of age, living in the community will participate in the study. The test protocol includes tests for static and dynamic balance assessment (Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale; Timed Up and Go Test;) and strength (T-Force Test); sociodemographic characterization questionnaires, fall history, physical activity (IPAQ - E), fear of falling (FES-I) and physical fitness assessment (Fullerton Functional Physical Fitness Battery). Participants will be randomly distributed into two groups, intervention group and control group. After the initial evaluations, participants in the intervention group will perform a specific balance and strength program, twice a week, for 12 weeks. Two intermediate evaluations will be performed at the 4th and 8th weeks. Subsequently, the effects of the detraining will be evaluated 4 and 8 weeks after the end of the program. The control group will not participate in any specific intervention during the trial period, continuing to receive the general physical activity program. However, they will receive the specific balance and strength program after the trial period. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: The combination of balance and strength training is expected to be effective in improving balance variables, lower limb strength and reducing the risk of falling. The results will have implications for the design and implementation of interventions to improve balance in the older adults. Information on the assessment of the risk of falling, dose-response relationships and distraining effects will also be provided. Finally, the professionals, responsible for the interventions, will receive an exercise program for the prevention of falls, easy to manage and scientifically validated.