Model of Fall Prevention in The Elderly by Nine-Square Exercise

Abstract

Background: In the elderly, falls are a major cause of injuries, which can constrain daily activities, and can result in functional impairment, disability, or even death. Given that the number of older people is rising, the costs, which are associated with falls, are increasing. Therefore, preventing falls is an important aspect of protecting health. Exercise is one of the interventions, which can be used to prevent falls in the elderly.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine the outcomes of exercise using the Nine-Square Table in elderly patients and to determine the effects that it has on promoting balance and in gaining muscle strength in the lower extremities, as well as to investigate the use of this exercise table as a model for preventing falls.

Materials and methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted with 55 elderly males and females, who were 60 years of age and above. The samples were divided into 2 groups: an intervention group consisting of 29 participants, who performed the Nine-Square Exercise 3 days per week for 40 minutes per day, and a control group of 26 participants, who performed their usual daily activities. Before starting the program and at periods of 2, 4, and 6 months after the training, the participants were tested on balance (3-meter timed up and go test) and on the strength of their lower extremities (5-time sit to stand test). The data was obtained and then analyzed to obtain percentages, means, and standard deviations. The hypothesis was tested by the T-Test, the Mann- Whitney U- Test, and the Repeated measure ANOVA.

Results: The experimental group significantly exhibited better balance and greater muscle strength in their extremities than the control group, which had a significantly lower average score on the Timed Up and Go test and the Five-Time Sit to Stand test (F = 5.33, p < 0.05 and F = 16.96, p < 0.05).

Conclusion: This study demonstrated that intervention using the Nine-Square Exercise is effective for the elderly by improving their balance and strengthening the muscles of their lower extremities. Therefore, this exercise model is appropriate and should be used for fall prevention.