The Effect of Turning Training in Comparison with Balance Training on Balance Performance, Mobility, Turning and Fear of Falling in Older Adults.

Older adults’ ability to walk and turn is a crucial factor in quality independent living. This study aimed to investigate the effect of turning training in comparison with balance training on balance performance, mobility, turning, and fear of falling in older adults. therefore 45 eligible elderly males at least 60 years old were selected and randomly assigned to two experimental groups (turning and balance training) and a control group (n=15). Each experimental group performed their training program for 12 weeks. Static and dynamic balance, functional balance and mobility, straight walking, turning walking, and fear of falling were measured through force plate, Timed Up and Go Test, 10 Meter Walk Test, Figure of 8 Walk Test, and Falls Efficacy Scale-International respectively. Both turning and balance training were effective in improving static, dynamic, and functional balance, straight walking, and decreasing the fear of falling in both training groups compared to the control group. Turning training improved turning performance compared to balance training and the control groups and had a more effect on improving functional balance than balance training. The use of the turning components in training not only has the effects of balance training but also has more effects on improving performance in turning tasks in older adults. Due to the extent of turning situations in daily activities and its potential risk for older adults, it is recommended to use the turning components and perform the turning training in older adults.