The Effects of Core Stability Exercises on Balance and Walking in Elderly Fallers with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Control Trial

Abstract

Introduction: Falling is a serious concern among elderly which have made a lot of discussions between gerontologists and physical therapists. Falling is common, dangerous, and costly among the elderly population. Fear of falling again among elderly faller leads to decrease self-confidence, loss of life quality, and inability. The purpose of this study was to find the effects of core stability exercise on balance and functional mobility among elderly with a history of falling. Materials and Methods: Thirty elderly people with a history of falling were randomly divided into control (n = 15) and experimental (n = 15) groups. The experimental group performed a 40-minute core stability exercise for eight weeks and three sessions per week. Before and after eight weeks of exercise program, static balance with open and closed eyes, Timed Up and Go (TUG) test for dynamic balance, and 10-meter walking were taken in both groups. The control group only have the daily activities. The two-way ANOVA test was used to compare the mean differences between groups. Results: Central stability training had a significant effect on static balance with open and closed eye, TUG, and 10-meter walking (P = 0.001). The control group did not show a significant effect on the factors of static balance with open eyes, static balance of closed eyes, TUG, and 10-meter walking. Following training period, the experimental group showed significantly better status in all variables compared to control group (0.91 ≤ η 2 ≤ 0.94, P = 0.001). Conclusion: It seems that strengthening the muscles in the central area of the body leads to maintaining balance in the elderly during daily activities. Since independency is very important in people with a history of falling, it can improve their independence and active participation by performing these exercises as simple, low-cost, and appropriate activities for home exercise.