[Intervention study using a fall prevention program to prevent functional decline of old-old elderly in a rural community].

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a fall prevention program for old-old elderly in a rural community in Japan. The subjects were 71 inhabitants aged 75 and over who used community health and welfare services such as day services and social activity classes. They were divided into two groups: 34 in the experimental group, and 37 controls. Physical therapists and care staff instructed the experimental group in fall prevention exercises once per two weeks from December 2000 to March 2001. The control group utilized the usual services without any special instructions. All subjects were evaluated by physical performance tests and a self-administered questionnaire before and after 4 months following the intervention. Collected data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA using intervention and time as independent variables, and physical performance tests as dependent variables. Twenty-three of the experimental group and 26 of the control group completed both baseline and follow-up surveys. There were no significant differences in physical ability between the two groups at the time of the baseline survey. The experimental group showed excellent compliance and participated in all sessions during the intervention period. Interaction effects on body mass index and Timed Up and Go Test were shown to be significant (F = 5.623, P < 0.01: F = 6.541, P < 0.05). There were no changes in terms of other physical and psychological factors. Our results showed specific exercises could improve some aspects of physical performance. Since the group exercise program can be effective for old-old elderly, it might contribute to decreasing falls and prolong independent living.