THE EFFECT OF A 6-WEEK BALANCE EXERCISE PROGRAM ON BALANCE PARAMETERS IN FRAILTY SYNDROME: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED, DOUBLE-BLIND, PROSPECTIVE STUDY

Abstract

Objective: This study assessed the effectiveness of a six-week balance exercise program on balance parameters and fall frequency in geriatric patients with frailty syndrome. Methodology: This randomized prospective study evaluated a total of 216 patients after referral to a physical medicine and rehabilitation outpatient clinic. Participants were divided into group 1 (flexibility exercises) and group 2 (balance exercises, including kinesthetic ability trainer [KAT] balance exercises, and flexibility exercises). Both groups performed exercises five days per week for six weeks. Balance assessments included the Berg Balance Scale and time-up-and-go test to evaluate dynamic and functional balance, while the one-leg stand test and KAT 4000 static balance test were done to evaluate static balance. Results: Frailty was observed in 37 patients (17.12%). Patients without frailty syndrome initially performed significantly better (p <0.001). Group 2 demonstrated statistically significant improvements after six weeks (p <0.05). Conclusion: Long-term exercise programs improve balance parameters and exercise performance in older adults with frailty. © 2023 Georgian Association of Business Press. All rights reserved.