Abstract
Introduction
Fall prevention (FP) in older adults is an important area of research requiring innovative approaches. One potential strategy for providing FP among older adults is telerehabilitation. This study describes the design of a video-based exercise for fall prevention (VbEFP), and determines its feasibility and short-term effects in community-dwelling older adults.
Material and methods
The Otago Exercise Programme was adapted for VbEFP by an iterative process. After three weeks, its feasibility was determined using a Usability Satisfaction and Enjoyment Questionnaire among 10 community-dwelling older adults (mean age: 67.6 ± 4.86 years; 70% female). The short-term effects were assessed in terms of balance (Berg Balance Scale and 4-stage Balance Test), risk of falling (Timed Up and Go Test, 30-sec Chair Stand Test, and Fall Efficacy Scale), physical activity (Physical Activity scale for the Elderly), and health-related quality of life (SF-36 Health Survey).
Results
Positive responses were obtained regarding usefulness (3.8 ± 0.59), ease of use (4.60 ± 0.90), ease of learning (4.8 ± 0.36), satisfaction (4.42 ± 0.50), and pleasantness (4.49 ± 0.37). There was a significant difference in physical activities aimed at improving endurance following VbEFP use (p = 0.001).
Conclusions
The VbEFP achieved satisfactory responses regarding ease of use, usefulness, and satisfaction among Nigerian community-dwelling older adults. Though VbEFP significantly increases physical activity to improve endurance in the short-term, longer implementation may be necessary to obtain significant benefits in other clinical outcomes.