Exercise Improves Balance and Mobility in Older Veterans
Author Information
Author(s): Dondero Kathleen, Giffuni Jamie, Kelly Megan, Addison Odessa
Primary Institution: Towson University
Hypothesis
Does participation in the Gerofit exercise program improve balance and mobility in older veterans at risk for falls?
Conclusion
Older veterans can improve their balance and mobility within six months of participating in an exercise program.
Supporting Evidence
- FSST times improved by approximately 13% from baseline to 6 months.
- High fall risk veterans showed clinically meaningful improvements in FSST times.
- Improvements in balance and mobility were maintained through 1 year of exercise participation.
Takeaway
When older veterans exercise regularly, they can get better at balancing and moving around, which helps them avoid falls.
Methodology
The Four-Square Step Test was used to measure dynamic balance at baseline, 6 months, and 1 year in older veterans participating in the Gerofit exercise program.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 88 low fall risk veterans and 52 high fall risk veterans, with ages ranging from 71 to 74 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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