Abstract:

Background: Community-based interventions show a decrease in morbidity according to falls and interventions covering exercise and home safety measures were superior to solve educational activities. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of a 12-week balance, strength and aerobic training on balance and conditional tests in people aged 55 years and over. Material and Methods: The study was performed in a primary health care center in Antalya, South-Turkey. A sample of 199 patients have been invited. After randomization, the intervention group received instructions about the falls prevention and endurance, strength, balance and flexibility training. Patients were counseled once a week and supported monthly with a elastic band(according their level of strength). Two measurements with Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale (FAB), Balance Efficacy Scale (BES), Health and Activity Questionnaire (HAQ), of the Falls Prevention Program and physical condition measurements have been performed Results: The number of participants both in the intervention and control groups were 73 however, 7 patients from the intervention group and 9 patients from the control group dropped out before the lass evaluation at the 12th week. The scores of FAB and BES, the Chair Stand Test Repetition Frequency, Chair Sit and Reach Test, Back Scratch Test, Arm Curl Test, Two Minutes Step Test, and the Fifty Feet Walk Test showed a significant difference at the end of the intervention and in the intervention group. Conclusion: Improvements in conditional factors (strength, flexibility and balance) were observed. A decrease in fall frequency was not observed. We recommend a promising intervention, which could be implemented in alow-resourced setting and which could reduce falls in long-term.

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