Effects of Balance Training to Improve Gait and Quality of Life of Elderly in a Low Resource Country

Abstract

Background: Balance control is fundamental for independent mobility and daily function. Declining balance due to aging or disease increases the risk of falls, leading to significant health and social burdens. Effective balance training can improve gait stability in the elderly, reducing fall risk. Methods: This Prospective Experimental study was conducted in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, BSMMU, Dhaka from July 2022 to June 2023. A total of 60 patients were enrolled from inpatient and outpatient settings. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups: Group A (Non-Intervention): Received a home-based balance exercise program demonstrated at baseline, with 2 follow-ups. Group B (Intervention): Underwent supervised balance training sessions in a gymnasium twice weekly for 12 weeks. Results: The study found that the intervention group was older (66.53 ± 4.67 years) and had more males (60.0%). Both groups had similar baseline balance scores (p = 0.824), but the intervention group showed greater improvement at six (p = 0.012) and 12 weeks (p = 0.007). Quality of life (QoL) significantly improved in bodily pain, general health, social functioning, and role-emotional scores at six and 12 weeks (p < 0.05). By 12 weeks, Physical Component Summary, Mental Component Summary, and total QoL were significantly higher (p = 0.001), highlighting the intervention's benefits. Conclusion: A structured balance training program significantly enhances gait and stability in elderly individuals, reducing fall risk. These findings can inform rehabilitation strategies and public health policies to improve elderly care in Bangladesh. The study recommends integrating supervised balance training into routine geriatric rehabilitation programs.