Original Article
J Frailty Sarcopenia Falls 2022 Jun; 7(2):60-71 Copied!
10.22540/JFSF-07-060 Copied!
Balance Exercise Circuit for fall prevention in older adults: a randomized controlled crossover trial
- Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília - DF, Brasil
- Faculdade de Educação Física, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília - DF, Brasil
- Curso de Educação Física, Universidade Federal do Tocantins, Miracema - TO, Brasil
- Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília - DF, Brasil
- Rede Sarah de Hospitais de Reabilitação, Brasília, Brasil
Keywords:
Abstract Objectives This study aimed to assess the immediate and short-term effects of the Balance Exercise Circuit (BEC) on muscle strength, postural balance, and quality of life, with the aim of preventing falls in older adults. Methods Twenty-two volunteers participated in this randomized controlled crossover study. Group A performed BEC training in the initial 3 months and received no intervention in the following 3 months. Group B received no intervention during the first 3 months and then participated in BEC training for the next 3 months. In addition, participants were followed for an additional 3 months. Muscle strength, postural balance, functional mobility, and quality of life were assessed, respectively, using an isokinetic dynamometer, force platform, TUG test, and the WHOQOL. Results After 3 months of training, Group A presented improved balance and rate of force development (RFD), while Group B presented improvements in RFD, TUG performance, and WHOQOL physical and psychological domains. Regarding the short-term effects, the participants maintained the training effects in WHOQOL balance, RFD, and the social domain. In addition, the number of falls decreased during follow-up. Conclusion The BEC intervention improved muscle strength, postural balance, and quality of life in older adults, in addition to reducing the risk of falls. Trial registration Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC) - RBR-5nvrwm.