Can an Eight-Session Multicomponent Physical Exercise Program Reduce Fall Risk and Fear of Falling among the Elderly?

Abstract : In older populations, falls are responsible for decrease autonomy and increased pain and injuries. With aging, fall risk is multifactorial and associated with sarcopenia, impaired balance, falls themselves and psychological factors such as fear of falling. The objectives of the present study were: (a) to test the effects of a short multicomponent physical exercise program on fall risk and fear of falling; and (b) to analyze the relationship between fall risk and fear of falling. The participants were thirty-five older persons who were engaged in an eight-session physical exercise program. Balance (i.e., One-leg Balance Test, and Functional Reach Test), lower-limb endurance (i.e., Wall-sit Test) and fear of falling were measured before and after the multicomponent physical exercise program. Results indicated an increase in balance and a diminution of fear of falling after the end of the physical exercise program (p < 0.05). The program has an effect on lower limb endurance (p > 0.05). Gains in balance were correlated to the diminution of fear of falling (p < 0.05). An 8-week multicomponent physical exercise program based on balance is efficient to reduce fall risk and fear of falling among the elderly.