Effect of Selected Fallproof Exercise on Static and Dynamic Balance in the Elderly

Balance disorder has been recognized as a leading cause of falls in the elderly. The most important aim of rehabilitation when balance system is weakened is to resolve this disorder. Therefore, sports scientists and therapists utilize exercise trainings to facilitate and improve balance condition. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of eight weeks of selected Fallproof exercises on static and dynamic balance in the elderly.

Totally, 24 elderly people, aged 60-74 years, were selected via convenient sampling method and then randomly assigned into experimental and control groups. The experimental group participated in the FallProof program for eight weeks, while the control group did not participate in any special program. The static and dynamic balances were evaluated using Sharpendromberg (with open and closed eyes) and Timed Up and Go tests, respectively.

The results of Paired t-test showed that the opened-eye static balance scores (P = 0.001) and closed-eye dynamic balance (P 0.001) had improved in the experimental group following the training program, while no significant differences were observed in the control group. The results of one-way covariance analysis showed that the two groups had significant differences in static (opened and closed eye) and dynamic balance indices after training.

It seems that Fallproof training program, which incorporates several components of postural control, is an effective training method in improving balance in the elderly. Therefore, due to its effectiveness and because it does not need costly equipment, the chosen Fallproof training program is recommended to be used as a rehabilitation program for the elderly at home, and especially in nursing homes.