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Impact of Strengthening and Balance Training Exercise on Fall Risk among Elderly at Assiut Geriatric Clubs

Research Authors
Hanaa Moukhtar Ibrahim1 , Shimaa Elwardany Aly2 and Safaa Ali Mahran3
Research Department
Research Journal
IOSR Journal of Nursing and Health Science (IOSR-JNHS)
Research Publisher
IOSR Journal of Nursing and Health Science (IOSR-JNHS)
Research Vol
Volume 8, Issue 2 Ser. IX. (Mar. - Apr .2019)
Research Year
2019
Research_Pages
83-91
Research Abstract

Abstract: Background: Ageing related decline in muscle mass and strength with subsequent muscle weakness has been associated with increased risk of falls in older adults. Strengthening and balance training are currently recommended for older persons to improve muscle mass, strength, and eventually, independence in daily living activities. Aim of the study: to determine the impact of strengthening and balance exercises on postural balance and fall risk among Elderly at Assiut Geriatric clubs. Subject and methods: A quasiexperimental pre and post-test research design was utilized in this study. The study sample included 88 elderly selected from Assiut geriatric clubs. Tools: Data was collected by utilizing a designed interview questionnaire sheet that included two tools; one for collection of demographic data and medical problems, and the other included Berg Balance Scale (BBS) to assess the balance status of the elderly Results: 80.7% of the elderly had high risk for falling in pre-test while this score decreased to30.7%after exercise. There was statistically significant difference between pre and post-test among participants (P= 0.000). Conclusion: the balance status of the elderly improved after the application of the strengthening and balance training exercises compared to the pre-test results according to berg balance scale. Recommendation: Increasing public awareness and educating the elderly and their caregiver about the importance of strengthening and balance training exercise to reduce the risk of falls.