Effectiveness of a balance-training program provided by qualified care workers for community-based older adults: A preliminary study

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a balance-training program provided by qualified care workers (QCWs) to community-based older adults attending day centers. Weekly balance training was conducted by QCWs working at day centers over a 6-month period. Fall risk factors, fear of falling, and physical function were compared between balance-training (n = 22) and control (n = 23) groups at baseline and after 6 months of intervention. Physical function assessments included the following: one-leg standing test, chair-standing test (CST), timed up-and-go test (TUGT), and a lower-extremity muscle strength test (LEST). Participants who underwent balance training significantly improved in the CST and LEST, and had reduced fear and risk of falling compared with the control group (p < 0.05). In the balance-training group, the TUGT was significantly better at 6 months than at baseline (p < 0.05). A balance-training program for community-dwelling older adults can be effectively implemented by QCWs.