The effect of square-step exercise training on postural control, cognitive function and gait in the elderly: A pilot study

Abstract

Purpose: Falling is a common condition in elderly individuals. Over 65 years of age, annual rate of falling is 30-40% in healthy and community-dwelling elderly. Therefore, physiotherapy and rehabilitation approaches to prevent falling in elderly individuals are gaining importance. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of square-step exercise program on postural control, cognitive function, and gait in olderwith falling history. Methods: Sixteen elderly subjects with history of falling at least twice a year participated in this study. Eight subjects were in control group and eight elderly subjects were in exercise group. Subjects in the control group followed vestibular home exercise program twice a day, each exercise repeated 10 times for eight weeks. In addition to the vestibular home exercise training, the exercise training group received square-step exercise training three days a week for eight weeks. Demographic variables were recorded. Postural control was assessed using Computerized Dynamic Posturography (CDP), cognitive function was evaluated using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and gait was assessed using Dynamic Gait Index (DGI). Evaluations were performed before and after the treatment. Results: In square step exercise group, balance score obtained by using posturography, MoCA, and DGI scores were significantly increased (p<0.001). Conclusion: In older fallers, square step exercise training has an essential place regarding postural control, cognitive function, and gait. We believe that exercise training would be an effective treatment approach for increasing level of functional independence in older fallers. © 2020 Turkish Physiotherapy Association. All rights reserved.