BEST at home: a pilot evaluation of a home-based strength and balance exercise program

Abstract

Issue addressed: Home-based exercise with home visits has been shown to improve strength and balance and reduce falls in older people. This pilot study aimed to determine whether a home-based exercise program (delivered via workshops instead of home visits) improved strength and balance and reduced falls in adults aged 60 years and over. Methods: Participants attended two workshops over a six-month period and were instructed in the exercises by physiotherapists. Participants recorded their exercise and falls on a calendar and strength and balance measures were assessed at baseline and 12 weeks. Data was analysed using Wilcoxon signed rank tests, McNemar?s test and regression. Results: A total of 167 participants commenced the BEST at home program. The mean age was 69 years and 67% were female. Participants significantly improved in all measures of strength and balance. The number of falls was reduced during the six-month period but statistical significance was not achieved. Conclusions: The BEST at home program improved strength and balance in people aged 60 years and over. More research is required to determine long term adherence to BEST at home and whether this program can reduce falls. Key words: home-based exercise, strength, balance, older people, falls prevention