Effect of a Multimodal Exercise Program on Fall Risk among Rural Older Adults

Abstract

Falls are not a normal part of aging, but may be an important sign of a condition that might be cured or controlled. This quasi-experimental study aimed to evaluate the effect of a multimodal exercise program on fall risk among rural older adults. A multistage cluster sample of 60 older adults subjects who fulfilled the sample inclusion criteria. Two tools were used; Tool I was a structured interview questionnaire to assess elderly demographic characteristics, past and present medical history and fall history, Tool II was the Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA scale) to determine balance and gait abilities of older adults that measure fall risk. The results revealed that the mean score of fall risk increased from 16.33±4.6 in pretest to 23.95±3.6 post program. The difference was statistically significant (P=000) which indicates statistically significant decreasing in older adults fall risk post the program. The multimodal Exercise program is effective in improving the elderly’s fall risk and can be used as an effective non pharmacological intervention to decrease older adults fall risk.