Effect of Fall Prevention Exercise Program on Fall Efficacy, Depression, and Quality of Life of Elderly in the Community

Effect of Fall Prevention Exercise Program on Fall Efficacy, Depression, and Quality of Life of Elderly in the Community

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of fall-prevention exercise programs on fall efficacy, depression and health-related quality of life in elderly. Design: a randomized controlled trial Methods: A total of 57 participants over 65-years-old have been allocated to control and experimental groups. The experimental group received 8 weeks of fall-prevention exercises that included strengthening of lower extremities, balance and gait training. They received the exercises twice a week for 50 minutes as a group.Both groups were assessed using Modified Falls Efficacy Scale (MFES), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), and 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) prior and post to the intervention. The control group also received the same exercise program after the post evaluation. Results: The experimental group showed overall improvement in MFES, GDS, and physical components of SF-36 (p＜0.05). The MFES was significantly increased in the experimental group after the intervention (p＜0.05). The GDS was significantly decreased in the experimental group after the intervention (p＜0.05). The SF-36, only physical Function, Role limitations due to physical health, general health, and energy and fatigue categories were improved in the experimental group after the intervention (p＜0.05). Conclusions: The results showed 8 weeks of fall-prevention exercise programs can increase fall efficacy and physical related quality of life while reducing depression of elderly over 65.