Effect of Otago Exercise on Balance and Balance Confidence in Institutionalized Older Adults / 中国康复理论与实践

ABSTRACT

Objective:To explore the effect of Otago exercise on balance and balance confidence in the institutionalized elderly. Methods:From March to June, 2016, a total of 60 participants received Otago exercise for twelve weeks. They were assessed with Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Functional Reach Test (FRT), Four-Square Step Test (FSST) and Activities-Specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC) before and after intervention. Results:After intervention, the scores of BBS, FRT and FSST significantly improved (t > 4.282, P < 0.001), and the number of people with the risk of falling significantly decreased (χ2 = 19.286, P < 0.001). Conclusion:Otago exercise could effectively improve the balance ability and balance confidence for the older adults in nursing home.