Differences In Fall Risk Assessment Scores Between Walking And Cross-Training Exercise Groups In Community Dwelling Older Adults

Falling is one of the most common accidents in the elderly. Falls may lead to serious injuries such as hip and other fractures. Clinical fall risk assessment tests examine strength, balance, and flexibility. However, current clinical tests might not be as effective when used with more active, older individuals. The purpose of this study is to examine if outcome scores from two fall risk assessment tests and one physical assessment test are different between two groups of exercisers: regular walkers and regular cross trainers. Methods: Cross-sectional in design, community dwelling adults 60 years of age or older were divided into a walking group or cross-training group. In one visit, subjects performed the Timed Up and Go test, Sitting-Rising Test, and a postural sway test. Results: Significant differences between groups were only observed in the Sitting-Rising test. Discussion: The physical test, Sitting-Rising test, might be better at examining strength, balance and flexibility than traditional fall risk assessment tests. Conclusion: Follow up studies need to be done to see if the Sitting-Rising test can be used in concert with other fall risk assessment tests to predict future falls.