Effects of Three Different Exercise Programs on Dynamic Balance in Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Trial statusRecruiting
Trial phaseNot applicable
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexAll
Age65+
SponsorFenerbahce University

About this trial

This study aims to compare the effects of core stabilization exercises, an amplitude-based exercise program derived from LSVT BIG principles, and their combination on dynamic balance in community-dwelling healthy older adults aged 65 years and above. Secondary outcomes include functional mobility, fear of falling, reaction time, and quality of life.

Age-related declines in neuromuscular and sensory functions impair postural control and increase fall risk. While both core stabilization and amplitude-based exercises have shown beneficial effects, their comparative and combined effects in healthy older adults remain unclear. This study will determine whether the combined intervention provides additional benefits over single interventions.

Eligibility criteria

This trial accepts healthy volunteers

Qualifiers

Age 65 years and older

Ability to walk independently

Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score > 24, indicating sufficient cognitive ability to understand and follow instructions

Willingness to participate in the study and provide written informed consent

Disqualifiers

History of serious lower extremity injury, surgery, or acute musculoskeletal condition within the last 6 months

Severe visual or hearing impairment that would prevent safe and accurate completion of the assessments

Presence of acute vestibular disorders significantly affecting balance

Presence of neurological disease

Trial design

Design model

Parallel

Treatments tested in this trial

  • Core Stabilization Exercises

    Behavioral

    A structured exercise program focusing on trunk muscle activation, spinal stability, and postural control.

  • Amplitude-Based Exercise (LSVT BIG)

    Behavioral

    An exercise program derived from LSVT BIG principles, emphasizing increased movement amplitude and functional mobility.

  • Combined Core and Amplitude-Based Exercise

    Behavioral

    A combined program including core stabilization exercises and amplitude-based exercises based on LSVT BIG principles.

Treatment groups

45 Participants
are divided into 3 treatment groups
Group A: Core Stabilization Exercise GroupExperimental treatment 1 intervention
Group B: Amplitude-Based Exercise Group (LSVT BIG)Experimental treatment 1 intervention
Group C: Combined Core and Amplitude-Based Exercise GroupExperimental treatment 1 intervention

Trial outcomes

Primary outcomes

1

Dynamic Balance (Y Balance Test)

The Y Balance Test is a reliable and valid measure used to assess dynamic balance and neuromuscular control. It is a modified version of the Star Excursion Balance Test and evaluates an individual's ability to maintain single-leg stance while reaching in multiple directions. During the test, the participant stands on one leg at the center of a Y-shaped grid and uses the free limb to reach as far as possible in three directions: anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral. Reach distances are measured in centimeters, and a composite score is calculated by normalizing reach distances to limb length. Higher reach distances and composite scores indicate better dynamic balance performance. The test has been widely used in clinical and research settings due to its sensitivity in detecting balance deficits and risk of injury or falls.

Time frame
From enrollment to the end of treatment at 8 weeks

Secondary outcomes

1

Functional Reach Distance

Dynamic balance will be assessed using the Functional Reach Test. Participants will reach forward as far as possible while maintaining a fixed base of support, and the distance reached will be recorded in centimeters.

Time frame
From enrollment to the end of treatment at 8 weeks
2

360-Degree Turn Time

Dynamic balance will be evaluated by measuring the time required to complete a full 360-degree turn in a standing position. Shorter times indicate better performance.

Time frame
From enrollment to the end of treatment at 8 weeks
3

Reaction Time

Reaction time will be measured using a computerized system by recording responses to visual and auditory stimuli. Mean reaction time values will be used for analysis.

Time frame
From enrollment to the end of treatment at 8 weeks
4

Fear of Falling (FES-I)

Fear of falling will be assessed using the Falls Efficacy Scale International (FES-I), a validated self-reported questionnaire.

Time frame
From enrollment to the end of treatment at 8 weeks

Other outcomes

Sponsors and contacts

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