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Exercise for improving balance in older people

  1. Tracey E Howe1,*,
  2. Lynn Rochester2,
  3. Alison Jackson3,
  4. Pauline MH Banks4,
  5. Valerie A Blair5

Editorial Group: Cochrane Bone, Joint and Muscle Trauma Group

Published Online: 8 OCT 2008

Assessed as up-to-date: 26 JUL 2007

DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD004963.pub2

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How to Cite

Howe TE, Rochester L, Jackson A, Banks PMH, Blair VA. Exercise for improving balance in older people. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2007, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD004963. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD004963.pub2.

Author Information

  1. 1

    Glasgow Caledonian University, HealthQWest, Glasgow, Scotland, UK

  2. 2

    Northumbria University, School of Health, Community and Education Studies, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

  3. 3

    University of Glasgow, Department of Psychological Medicine, Glasgow, UK

  4. 4

    HealthQWest, School of Health Studies, Hamilton, Lanarkshire, UK

  5. 5

    Bell College, School of Health Studies, Hamilton, Lanarkshire, UK

*Tracey E Howe, HealthQWest, Glasgow Caledonian University, Cowcaddens Road, Glasgow, Scotland, G4 0BA, UK. tracey.howe@gcal.ac.uk.

Publication History

  1. Publication Status: Edited (no change to conclusions)
  2. Published Online: 8 OCT 2008

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References

References to studies included in this review

  1. References to studies included in this review
  2. References to studies excluded from this review
  3. References to studies awaiting assessment
  4. Additional references
Boshuizen 2005 {published data only}
  • Boshuizen HC, Stemmerik L, Westhoff MH, Hopman-Rock M. The effects of physical therapists' guidance on improvement in a strength-training program for the frail elderly. Journal of Aging & Physical Activity 2005;13(1):5-22.
Brouwer 2003 {published data only}
  • Brouwer BJ, Walker C, Rydahl SJ, Culham EG. Reducing fear of falling in seniors through education and activity programs: A randomized trial. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2003;51(6):829-34.
    Direct Link:
Buchner 1997a {published data only}
  • Buchner DM, Cress ME, De Lateur BJ, Esselman PC, Margherita AJ, Price R, et al. The effect of strength and endurance training on gait, balance, fall risk, and health services use in community-living older adults. Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences & Medical Sciences 1997;52A(4):M218-24.
Buchner 1997b {published data only}
  • Buchner DM, Cress ME, De Lateur BJ, Esselman PC, Margherita AJ, Price R, et al. A comparison of the effects of three types of endurance training on balance and other fall risk factors in older adults. Aging-Clinical & Experimental Research 1997;9(1-2):112-9.
Cress 1999 {published data only}
  • Cress ME, Buchner DM, Questad KA, Esselman PC, De Lateur BJ, Schwartz RS. Exercise: effects on physical functional performance in independent older adults. Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences & Medical Sciences 1999;54A(5):M242-8.
Crilly 1989 {published data only}
Islam 2004 {published data only}
  • Islam MM, Nasu E, Rogers ME, Koizumi D, Rogers NL, Takeshima N. Effects of combined sensory and muscular training on balance in Japanese older adults. Preventative Medicine 2004;39(6):1148-55.
Jessup 2003 {published data only}
  • Jessup JV, Horne C, Vishen RK, Wheeler D. Effects of exercise on bone density, balance, and self-efficacy in older women. Biological Research for Nursing 2003;4(3):171-80.
Johansson 1991 {published data only}
  • Johansson G, Jarnlo G. Balance training in 70-year-old women. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice 1991;7(2):121-5.
Krebs 1998 {published data only}
Lichtenstein 1989 {published data only}
  • Lichtenstein MJ, Shields SL, Shiavi RG, Burger MC. Exercise and balance in aged women: a pilot controlled clinical trial. Archives of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 1989;70(2):138-43.
Lord 1995 {published data only}
  • Lord S, Ward J, Williams P, Zivanovic E. The effects of a community exercise program on fracture risk factors in older women. Osteoporosis International 1996;6(5):361-7.
  • Lord SR, Ward JA, Williams P, Strudwick M. The effect of a 12-month exercise trial on balance, strength, and falls in older women: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 1995;43(11):1198-206.
  • Lord SR, Ward JA, Williams P. Exercise effect of dynamic stability in older women: a randomized controlled trial.. Archives of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 1996;77(3):232-236.
Lord 2003 {published data only}
  • Lord SR, Castell S, Corcoran J, Dayhew J, Matters B, Shan A, et al. The effect of group exercise on physical functioning and falls in frail older people living in retirement villages: a randomized, controlled trial. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2003;51(12):1685-92.
    Direct Link:
Lord 2005 {published data only}
  • Lord SR, Tiedemann A, Chapman K, Munro B, Murray SM, Sherrington C. The effect of an individualized fall prevention program on fall risk and falls in older people: a randomized, controlled trial. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2005;53(8):1296-304.
    Direct Link:
MacRae 1994 {published data only}
  • MacRae PG, Feltner ME, Reinsch S. A 1-year exercise program for older women: Effects on falls, injuries, and physical performance. Journal of Aging & Physical Activity 1994;2(2):127-145.
McGarry 2001 {published and unpublished data}
  • McGarry ST, McGuire SK, Magee TM, Bethard HK, FlomMeland CK. The effects of "The Get Off Your Rocker" exercise class on balance. Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy 2001;24(3):21-5.
McMurdo 1993 {published data only}
Nelson 2004 {published data only}
  • Nelson ME, Layne JE, Bernstein MJ, Nuernberger A, Castaneda C, Kaliton D, et al. The effects of multidimensional home-based exercise on functional performance in elderly people. Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences & Medical Sciences 2004;59(2):154-60.
Okumiya 1996 {published data only}
  • Okumiya K, Matsubayashi K, Wada T, Kimura S, Doi Y, Ozawa T. Effects of exercise on neurobehavioral function in community-dwelling older people more than 75 years of age. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 1996;44(5):569-72.
Paillard 2004 {published data only}
  • Paillard T, Lafont C, Costes-Salon M, Rivière D, Dupui P. Effects of brisk walking on static and dynamic balance, locomotion, body composition, and aerobic capacity in ageing healthy active men. International Journal of Sports Medicine 2004;25(7):539-546.
Ramsbottom 2004 {published data only}
  • Ramsbottom R, Ambler A, Potter J, Jordan B, Nevill A, Williams C. The effect of 6 months training on leg power, balance, and functional mobility of independently living adults over 70 years old. Journal of Aging & Physical Activity 2004;12(4):497-510.
Reinsch 1992 {published data only}
Rooks 1997a {published data only}
  • Rooks DS, Kiel DP, Parsons C, Hayes WC. Self-paced resistance training and walking exercise in community-dwelling older adults: Effects on neuromotor performance. Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences & Medical Sciences 1997;52(3):M161-8.
Rubenstein 2000 {published data only}
  • Rubenstein LZ, Josephson KR, Trueblood PR, Loy S, Harker JO, Pietruszka FM, et al. Effects of a group exercise program on strength, mobility, and falls among fall-prone elderly men. Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences & Medical Sciences 2000;55(6):M317-21.
Sauvage 1992 {published data only}
  • Sauvage LR Jr, Myklebust BM, CrowPan J, Novak S, Millington P, Hoffman, et al. A clinical trial of strengthening and aerobic exercise to improve gait and balance in elderly male nursing home residents. American Journal Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 1992;71(6):333-42.
Schoenfelder 2004 {published data only}
Shigematsu 2002 {published data only}
  • Shigematsu R, Chang M, Yabushita N, Sakai T, Nakagaichi M, Nho H, et al. Dance-based aerobic exercise may improve indices of falling risk in older women. Age & Ageing 2002;31(4):261-6.
Shimada 2004 {published and unpublished data}
  • Shimada H, Obuchi S, Furuna T, Suzuki T. New intervention program for preventing falls among frail elderly people: the effects of perturbed walking exercise using a bilateral separated treadmill. American Journal Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 2004;83(7):493-9.
Sihvonen 2004 {published data only}
Suzuki 2004 {published and unpublished data}
  • Suzuki T, Kim H, Yoshida H, Ishizaki T. Randomized controlled trial of exercise intervention for the prevention of falls in community-dwelling elderly Japanese women. Journal of Bone & Mineral Metabolism 2004;22(6):602-11.
Wolf 1997 {published data only}
  • Wolf SL, Barnhart HX, Ellison GL, Coogler CE. The effect of Tai Chi Quan and computerized balance training on postural stability in older subjects. Physical Therapy 1997;77(4):371-81.
  • Wolf SL, Kutner NG, Green RC, McNeely E. The Atlanta FICSIT study: Two exercise interventions to reduce frailty in elders. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 1993;41(3):329-32.
Wolf 2001 {published data only}
  • Wolf B, Feys H, De W, Van der Meer J, Noom M, Aufdemkampe G, et al. Effect of a physical therapeutic intervention for balance problems in the elderly: a single-blind, randomized, controlled multicentre trial. Clinical Rehabilitation 2001;15(6):624-36.
Wolfson 1996 {published data only}
  • Wolfson L, Whipple R, Derby C, Judge J, King M, Amerman P, et al. Balance and strength training in older adults: intervention gains and Tai Chi maintenance. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 1996;44(5):498-506.
  • Wolfson L, Whipple R, Judge J, Amerman P, Derby C, King M. Training balance and strength in the elderly to improve function. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 1993;41(3):341-3.
Zhang 2006 {published data only}
  • Zhang JG, Ishikawa-Takata K, Yamazaki H, Morita T, Ohta T. The effects of Tai Chi Chuan on physiological function and fear of falling in the less robust elderly: An intervention study for preventing falls. Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics 2006;42(2):107-16.

References to studies excluded from this review

  1. References to studies included in this review
  2. References to studies excluded from this review
  3. References to studies awaiting assessment
  4. Additional references
Alexander 2001a {published data only}
  • Alexander NB, Galecki AT, Grenier ML, Nyquist LV, Hofmeyer MR, Grunawalt JC, et al. Task-specific resistance training to improve the ability of activities of daily living-impaired older adults to rise from a bed and from a chair. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2001;49(11):1418-27.
    Direct Link:
Alexander 2001b {published data only}
  • Alexander NB, Gross MM, Medell JL, Hofmeyer MR. Effects of functional ability and training on chair-rise biomechanics in older adults. Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences & Medical Sciences 2001;56(9):M538-47.
Allen 1999 {published data only}
  • Allen A, Simpson JM. A primary care-based fall prevention programme. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice 1999;15(2):121-33.
Anonymous 2002 {published data only}
  • Anonymous. Balance is best to prevent falls in the elderly. Medicine Today 2002;3(10):7.
Au-Yeung 2002 {published data only}
  • Au-Yeung SSY, Ho HPY, Lai JWC, Lau RWK, Wong AYL, Lau SK. Did mobility and balance of residents living in private old age homes improve after a mobility exercise programme? A pilot study. Hong Kong Physiotherapy Journal 2002;20:16-21.
Ballard 2004 {published data only}
  • Ballard JE, McFarland C, Wallace LS, Holiday DB, Roberson G. The effect of 15 weeks of exercise on balance, leg strength, and reduction in falls in 40 women aged 65 to 89 years. Journal of the American Medical Womens Association 2004;59(4):255-61.
Barnett 2003 {published data only}
  • Barnett A, Smith B, Lord SR, Williams M, Baumand A. Community-based group exercise improves balance and reduces falls in at-risk older people: A randomised controlled trial. Age & Ageing 2003;32(4):407-14.
Barrett 2002 {published data only}
  • Barrett C, Smerdely P. A comparison of community-based resistance exercise and flexibility exercise for seniors. Australian Journal of Physiotherapy 2002;48(3):215-9.
Bean 2004 {published data only}
  • Bean JF, Herman S, Kiely DK, Frey IC, Leveille SG, Fielding RA, et al. Increased Velocity Exercise Specific to Task (InVEST) training: a pilot study exploring effects on leg power, balance, and mobility in community-dwelling older women. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2004;52(5):799-804.
    Direct Link:
Binder 2002 {published data only}
  • Binder EF, Schechtman KB, Ehsani AA, StegerMay K, Brown M, Sinacore DR, et al. Effects of exercise training on frailty in community-dwelling older adults: results of a randomized, controlled trial. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2002;50(12):1921-8.
    Direct Link:
Bonnefoy 2003 {published data only}
  • Bonnefoy M, Cornu C, Normand S, Boutitie F, Bugnard F, Rahmani A, et al. The effects of exercise and protein-energy supplements on body composition and muscle function in frail elderly individuals: a long-term controlled randomised study. British Journal of Nutrition 2003;89(5):731-8.
Brown 2000 {published data only}
  • Brown M, Sinacore DR, Ehsani AA, Binder EF, Holloszy JO, Kohrt WM. Low-intensity exercise as a modifier of physical frailty in older adults. Archives of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 2000;81(7):960-5.
Bruyere 2005 {published data only}
  • Bruyere O, Wuidart M, Di P, Gourlay M, Ethgen O, Richy F, et al. Controlled whole body vibration to decrease fall risk and improve health-related quality of life of nursing home residents. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 2005;86(2):303-7.
Buchner 1993 {published data only}
  • Buchner DM, Cress ME, Wagner EH, De Lateur BJ, Price R, Abrass IB. The Seattle FICSIT/MoveIt study: the effect of exercise on gait and balance in older adults. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 1993;41(3):321-5.
Campbell 1999 {published data only}
Cornillon 2002 {published data only}
  • Cornillon E, Blanchon M, Ramboatsisetraina P, Braize C, Beauchet O, Dubost V, et al. Effectiveness of falls prevention strategies for elderly subjects who live in the community with performance assessment of physical activities (before-after). Annales de Readaptation et de Medecine Physique 2002;45(9):493-504.
Day 2002 {published data only}
De Vreede 2004 {published data only}
  • De Vreede PL, Samson MM, Van Meeteren NL, Van der Bom JG, Duursma SA, Verhaar HJ. Functional tasks exercise versus resistance exercise to improve daily function in older women: a feasibility study. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 2004;85(12):1952-61.
Devereux 2005 {published data only}
  • Devereux K, Robertson D, Briffa NK. Effects of a water-based program on women 65 years and over: a randomised controlled trial. Australian Journal of Physiotherapy 2005;51(2):102-8.
DeVito 2003 {published data only}
  • DeVito CA, Morgan RO, Duque M, Abdel-Moty E, Virnig BA. Physical performance effects of low-intensity exercise among clinically defined high-risk elders. Gerontology 2003;49(3):146-54.
Dyer 2004 {published data only}
Earles 2001 {published data only}
  • Earles DR, Judge JO, Gunnarsson OT. Velocity training induces power-specific adaptations in highly functioning older adults. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 2001;82(7):872-8.
Fiatarone 1993 {published data only}
  • Fiatarone MA, O'Neill EF, Doyle N, Clements KM, Roberts SB, Kehayias JJ, et al. The Boston FICSIT study: the effects of resistance training and nutritional supplementation on physical frailty in the oldest old. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 1993;41(3):333-7.
Gill 2002 {published data only}
  • Gill TM, Baker DI, Gottschalk M, Peduzzi PN, Allore H, Byers A. A program to prevent functional decline in physically frail, elderly persons who live at home. New England Journal of Medicine 2002;347(14):1068-74.
Gras 2004 {published data only}
  • Gras LZ, Levangie PK, GoodwinSegal M, Lawrence DA. A comparison of hip versus ankle exercises in elders and the influence on balance and gait. Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy 2004;27(2):39-46.
Greendale 2000 {published data only}
  • Greendale GA, Salem GJ, Young JT, Damesyn M, Marion M, Wang M, et al. A randomized trial of weighted vest use in ambulatory older adults: strengths, performance, and quality of life outcomes. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2000;48(3):305-11.
Hauer 2003 {published data only}
  • Hauer K, Pfisterer M, Schuler M, Bartsch P, Oster P. Two years later: a prospective long-term follow-up of a training intervention in geriatric patients with a history of severe falls. Archives of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 2003;84(10):1426-32.
Helbostad 2004a {published data only}
  • Helbostad JL, Moe-Nilssen R, Sletvold O. Comparison of two types of exercise regimes on selected functional abilities for community-dwelling elderly at risk of falling. XVI th Conference of the International Society for Postural and Gait Research; 2003 Mar 23-27; New South Wales (Australia). www.powmri.edu.au/ispg2003/ISPG2003/ISPG2003.htm.
  • Helbostad JL, Sletvold O, MoeNilssen R. Home training with and without additional group training in physically frail old people living at home: effect on health-related quality of life and ambulation. Clinical Rehabilitation 2004;18(5):498-508.
Helbostad 2004b {published data only}
  • Helbostad JL, Sletvold O, Moe-Nilssen R. Effects of home exercises and group training on functional abilities in home-dwelling older persons with mobility and balance problems. A randomized study. Aging-Clinical & Experimental Research 2004;16(2):113-21.
Hinman 2002 {published data only}
  • Hinman MR. Comparison of two short-term balance training programs for community-dwelling older adults. Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy 2002;25(3):10-15, 20.
Hornbrook 1993 {published data only}
Hu 1994 {published data only}
  • Hu M, Woollacott MH. Multisensory training of standing balance in older adults: I. Postural stability and one-leg stance balance. Journal of Gerontology 1994;49(2):M52-61.
Jones 1992 {published data only}
  • Jones CJ, Robichaux J, Williams P, Rikli R. The effects of a 16-week exercise program on the dynamic balance of older adults. Journal of Clinical & Experimental Gerontology 1992;14(2):165-82.
Judge 1993a {published data only}
  • Judge JO, Lindsey C, Underwood M, Winsemius D. Balance improvements in older women: effects of exercise training... including commentary by Keshner EA with author response. Physical Therapy 1993;73(4):254-265.
Judge 1993b {published data only}
Judge 1994 {published data only}
  • Judge JO, Whipple RH, Wolfson LI. Effects of resistive and balance exercises on isokinetic strength in older persons. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 1994;42(9):937-46.
King 2002 {published data only}
  • King MB, Whipple RH, Gruman CA, Judge JO, Schmidt JA, Wolfson LI. The performance enhancement project: Improving physical performance in older persons. Archives of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 2002;83(8):1060-9.
Kovacs 2004 {published data only}
  • Kovacs C, Williams K. Sensory training effects on obstacle avoidance in healthy older adults. Physical Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics 2004;22(3):1-17.
Kutner 1997 {published data only}
  • Kutner NG, Barnhart H, Wolf SL, McNeely E, Xu T. Self-report benefits of Tai Chi practice by older adults. Journals of Gerontology Series B-Psychological Sciences & Social Sciences 1997;52B(5):P242-6.
LaStayo 2003 {published data only}
  • LaStayo PC, Ewy GA, Pierotti DD, Johns RK, Lindstedt S. The positive effects of negative work: increased muscle strength and decreased fall risk in a frail elderly population. Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences & Medical Sciences 2003;58(5):M419-24.
Latham 2001 {published data only}
  • Latham NK, Stretton C, Ronald M. Progressive resistance strength training in hospitalised older people: a preliminary investigation. New Zealand Journal of Physiotherapy 2001;29(2):41-8.
Lazowski 1999 {published data only}
  • Lazowski DA, Ecclestone NA, Myers AM, Paterson DH, Tudor Locke C, Fitzgerald C, et al. A randomized outcome evaluation of group exercise programs in long-term care institutions. Journal of Gerontology 1999;54(12):M621-8.
Li 2002 {published data only}
  • Li F, Fisher KJ, Harmer P, Mcauley E. Delineating the impact of Tai Chi training on physical function among the elderly. American Journal of Preventive Medicine 2002;23(2 Suppl):92-7.
Li 2005a {published data only}
  • Li F, Fisher KJ, Harmer P. Improving physical function and blood pressure in older adults through cobblestone mat walking: A randomized trial. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2005;53(8):1305-12.
    Direct Link:
Li 2005b {published data only}
  • Li F, Harmer P, Fisher KJ, Mcauley E, Chaumeton N, Eckstrom E, et al. Tai Chi and fall reductions in older adults: A randomized controlled trial. Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences & Medical Sciences 2005;60(2):187-94.
  • Li F, Harmer P, Fisher KJ, Mcauley E. Tai Chi: Improving functional balance and predicting subsequent falls in older persons. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise 2004;36(12):2046-52.
Lindemann 2004 {published data only}
Liu-Ambrose 2004 {published data only}
  • Liu-Ambrose T, Khan KM, Eng JJ, Lord SR, McKay HA. Balance confidence improves with resistance or agility training. Increase is not correlated with objective changes in fall risk and physical abilities. Gerontology 2004;50(6):373-82.
Marigold 2005 {published data only}
  • Marigold DS, Eng JJ, Dawson AS, Inglis JT, Harris, Gylfadottir S. Exercise leads to faster postural reflexes, improved balance and mobility, and fewer falls in older persons with chronic stroke. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2005;53(3):416-23.
    Direct Link:
McMurdo 1994 {published data only}
  • McMurdo ME, Rennie LM. Improvements in quadriceps strength with regular seated exercise in the institutionalized elderly. Archives of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 1994;75(5):600-3.
McMurdo 2000 {published data only}
Means 1996 {published data only}
  • Means KM, Rodell DE, O'Sullivan PS, Cranford LA. Rehabilitation of elderly fallers: pilot study of a low to moderate intensity exercise program. Archives of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 1996;77(10):1030-6.
Means 2005 {published data only}
  • Means KM, Rodell DE, O'Sullivan PS. Balance, mobility, and falls among community-dwelling elderly persons: effects of a rehabilitation exercise program. American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 2005;84(4):238-50.
Messier 2000 {published data only}
  • Messier SP, Royer TD, Craven TE, O'Toole ML, Burns R, Ettinger WH Jr. Long-term exercise and its effect on balance in older, osteoarthritic adults: Results from the fitness, arthritis, and seniors trial (FAST). Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2000;48(2):131-8.
Morgan 2004 {published data only}
  • Morgan RO, Virnig BA, Duque M, Abdel-Moty E, deVito CA. Low-intensity exercise and reduction of the risk for falls among at-risk elders. Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences & Medical Sciences 2004;59(10):1062-7.
Mulrow 1994 {published data only}
Nitz 2004 {published data only}
  • Nitz JC, Choy NL. The efficacy of a specific balance-strategy training programme for preventing falls among older people: A pilot randomised controlled trial. Age & Ageing 2004;33(1):52-8.
Ourania 2003 {published data only}
  • Ourania M, Yvoni H, Christos K, Ionannis T. Effects of a physical activity program. The study of selected physical abilities among elderly women. Journal of Gerontological Nursing 2003;29(7):50-5.
Paillard 2005 {published data only}
  • Paillard T, Lafont C, Soulat JM, Montoya R, Costes-Salon MC, Dupui P. Short-term effects of electrical stimulation superimposed on muscular voluntary contraction in postural control in elderly women. Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research 2005;19(3):640-6.
Prasansuk 2004 {published data only}
  • Prasansuk S, Siriyananda C, Nakorn AN, Atipas S, Chongvisal S. Balance disorders in the elderly and the benefit of balance exercise. Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand 2004;87(10):1225-33.
Ramsey 2003 {published data only}
  • Ramsey VK, Blasch BB, Kita A. Effects of mobility training on gait and balance. Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness 2003;97(11):720-6.
Robbins 2001 {published data only}
  • Robbins JA. A home-based, nurse-delivered exercise program reduced falls and serious injuries in persons greater than or equal to 80 years of age. American College of Physicians Journal Club 2001;135(3):100.
Rooks 1997b {published data only}
  • Rooks DS, Ransil BJ, Hayes WC. Self-paced exercise and neuromotor performance in community-dwelling older adults. Journal of Aging & Physical Activity 1997;5(2):135-49.
Ryushi 2000 {published data only}
  • Ryushi T, Kumagai K, Hayase H, Abe T, Shibuya K, Ono A. Effect of resistive knee extension training on postural control measures in middle aged and elderly persons. Journal of Physiological Anthropology & Applied Human Science 2000;19(3):143-9.
Shaughnessy 1998 {published data only}
  • Shaughnessy A. Can an in-home exercise program decrease falls and injuries in elderly women?. Evidence Based Practice 1998;1(2):7, insert 2.
Shimada 2003 {published data only}
Signorile 2002 {published data only}
  • Signorile JF, Carmel MP, Czaja SJ, Asfour SS, Morgan RO, Khalil TM, et al. Differential increases in average isokinetic power by specific muscle groups of older women due to variations in training and testing. Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences & Medical Sciences 2002;57(10):M683-90.
Simmons 1996 {published data only}
  • Simmons V, Hansen PD. Effectiveness of water exercise on postural mobility in the well elderly: An experimental study on balance enhancement. Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences & Medical Sciences 1996;51(5):M233-8.
Simons 2006 {published data only}
Skelton 1999 {published data only}
  • Skelton DA, Dinan SM. Exercise for falls management: rationale for an exercise programme aimed at reducing postural instability. Physiotherapy Theory & Practice 1999;15(2):105-20.
Sohng 2003 {published data only}
  • Sohng K, Moon J, Song H, Lee K, Kim Y. Fall prevention exercise program for fall risk factor reduction of the community-dwelling elderly in Korea. Yonsei Medical Journal 2003;44(5):883-91.
Steadman 2003 {published data only}
  • Steadman J, Donaldson N, Kalra L. A randomized controlled trial of an enhanced balance training program to improve mobility and reduce falls in elderly patients. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2003;51(6):847-52.
    Direct Link:
Steinberg 2000 {published data only}
  • Steinberg M, Cartwright C, Peel N, Williams G. A sustainable programme to prevent falls and near falls in community dwelling older people: results of a randomised trial [with consumer summary]. Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health 2000;54(3):227-32.
Szturm 1994 {published data only}
  • Szturm T, Ireland D, Lessing-Turner M. Comparison of different exercise programs in the rehabilitation of patients with chronic peripheral vestibular dysfunction. Journal of Vestibular Research 1994;4(6):461-79.
Timonen 2002 {published data only}
  • Timonen L, Rantanen T, Ryynanen OP, Taimela S, Timonen TE, Sulkava R. A randomized controlled trial of rehabilitation after hospitalization in frail older women: effects on strength, balance and mobility. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports 2002;12(3):186-92.
    Direct Link:
Tinetti 1994 {published data only}
  • Tinetti ME, Baker DI, McAvay G, Claus EB, Garrett P, Gottschalk M, et al. A multifactorial intervention to reduce the risk of falling among elderly people living in the community. New England Journal of Medicine 1994;331(13):821-27.
Udani 1998 {published data only}
  • Udani JK, Ofman JJ. Tai Chi for the prevention of falls in the elderly. Integrative Medicine 1998;1(4):167-9.
Verfaillie 1997 {published data only}
  • Verfaillie DF, Nichols JF, Turkel E, Hovell MF. Effects of resistance, balance, and gait training on reduction of risk factors leading to falls in elders. Journal of Aging & Physical Activity 1997;5(3):213-28.
Williams 2002 {published data only}
  • Williams K, Mustian K, Kovacs C. A home-based intervention to improve balance, gait and self-confidence. Activities, Adaptation & Aging 2002;27(2):1-16.
Wolf 1996 {published data only}
  • Wolf SL, Barnhart HX, Kutner NG, McNeely E, Coogler C, Xu T. Reducing frailty and falls in older persons: an investigation of Tai Chi and computerized balance training. Atlanta FICSIT Group. Frailty and Injuries: Cooperative Studies of Intervention Techniques. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 1996;44(5):489-97.
Wolf 2003 {published data only}
  • Wolf SL, Sattin RW, Kutner M, O'Grady M, Greenspan AI, Gregor RJ. Intense Tai Chi exercise training and fall occurrences in older, transitionally frail adults: a randomized, controlled trial... includes commentary by Lavery L and Studenski S. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2003;51(12):1693-701, 1804-5.
    Direct Link:
Yates 2001 {published data only}
  • Yates SM, Dunnagan, TA. Evaluating the effectiveness of a home-based fall risk reduction program for rural community-dwelling older adults. Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences & Medical Sciences 2001;56(4):M226-30.

References to studies awaiting assessment

  1. References to studies included in this review
  2. References to studies excluded from this review
  3. References to studies awaiting assessment
  4. Additional references
Baum 2003 {published data only}
  • Baum EE, Jarjoura D, Polen AE, Faur D, Rutecki G. Effectiveness of a group exercise program in a long-term care facility: a randomized pilot trial. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association 2003;4(2):74-80.
Campbell 1997 {published data only}
  • Campbell AJ, Robertson MC, Gardner MM, Norton R, Tilyard MW, Buchner DM. Randomised controlled trial of a general practice programme of home based exercise to prevent falls in elderly women. BMJ 1997;315(7115):1065-69.
Chandler 1998 {published data only}
  • Chandler J, Duncan P, Kochersberger G, Studenski S. Is lower extremity strength gain associated with improvement in physical performance and disability in frail, community-dwelling elders?. Archives of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 1998;79(1):24-30.
Gaub 2003 {published data only}
  • Gaub M, Prost E, Bomar M, Farid R, Langland G, Brown M. Exercise specificity for physical frailty. Journal of Geriatrics & Physical Therapy 2003;26(3):36-50.
Latham 2003 {published data only}
  • Latham NK, Anderson CS, Lee A, Bennett DA, Moseley A, Cameron ID. A randomized, controlled trial of quadriceps resistance exercise and vitamin D in frail older people: the Frailty Interventions Trial in Elderly Subjects (FITNESS). Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2003;51(3):291-9.
    Direct Link:
Morris 1999 {published data only}
  • Morris JN, Fiatarone M, Kiely DK, Belleville Taylor P, Murphy K, et al. Nursing rehabilitation and exercise strategies in the nursing home. Journal of Gerontology 1999;54(10):M494-500.
Sattin 2005 {published data only}
  • Sattin RW, Easley KA, Wolf SL, Chen Y, Kutner MH. Reduction in fear of falling through intense tai chi exercise training in older, transitionally frail adults. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 2005;53(7):1168-78.
    Direct Link:
Sayers 2003 {published data only}
  • Sayers SP, Bean J, Cuoco A, LeBrasseur NK, Jette A, Fielding RA. Changes in function and disability after resistance training: does velocity matter? A pilot study. American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 2003;82(8):605-13.
Schlicht 2001 {published data only}
  • Schlicht J, Camaione DN, Owen SV. Effect of intense strength training on standing balance, walking speed, and sit-to-stand performance in older adults. Journals of Gerontology Series A-Biological Sciences & Medical Sciences 2001;56(5):M281-6.
Schoenfelder 2000 {published data only}
  • Schoenfelder DP. A fall prevention program for elderly individuals. Exercise in long-term care settings. Journal of Gerontology Nursing 2000;26(3):43-51.
Skelton 1995 {published data only}
  • Skelton DA, Young A, Greig CA, Malbut KE. Effects of resistance training on strength, power, and selected functional abilities of women aged 75 and older. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 1995;43(10):1081-7.
Skelton 1996 {published data only}
  • Skelton DA, McLaughlin AW. Training functional ability in old age. Physiotherapy 1996;82(3):159-67.
Taaffe 1999 {published data only}
  • Taaffe DR, Duret C, Wheeler S, Marcus R. Once-weekly resistance exercise improves muscle strength and neuromuscular performance in older adults. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 1999;47(10):1208-14.
Topp 1993 {published data only}
  • Topp R, Mikesky A, Wigglesworth J, Holt WJ, Edwards JE. The effect of a 12-week dynamic resistance strength training program on gait velocity and balance of older adults. Gerontologist 1993;33(4):501-6.
Toraman 2004 {published data only}
  • Toraman NF, Erman A, Agyar E. Effects of multicomponent training on functional fitness in older adults. Journal of Aging & Physical Activity 2004;12(4):538-53.
Urbscheit 2001 {published data only}
  • Urbscheit NL, Wiegand MR. Effect of two exercise programs on balance scores in elderly ambulatory people. Physical and Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics 2001;19(4):49-58.
Worm 2001 {published data only}
  • Vad E, Worm C, Lauritsen JM, Poulsen PB, Puggaard L, Stovring H, et al. Physical training as treatment of reduced functional ability in frail 75+ year-olds living at home. A randomized intervention study in general practice with technological assessment elements [Fysisk traening som behandling af nedsat funktionsevne hos svage, hjemmeboende 75+ -arige. Et randomiseret interventionsstudie i almen praksis omfattende elementer til en teknologivurdering]. Ugeskrift for Laeger 2002;164(44):5140-4.
  • Worm CH, Vad E, Puggaard L, Stovring H, Lauritsen J, Kragstrup J. Effects of a multicomponent exercise program on functional ability in community-dwelling, frail older adults. Journal of Aging & Physical Activity 2001;9(4):414-24.
Yan 2005 {published data only}
  • Yan T-B, Xie R-H, Guo Y-H, Jin D-M, Cao Y-L. Comparison of the effects of shadowboxing on equilibrium function of healthy elderly women. Zhongguo Linchuang Kangfu 2005;9(4):159-61.
Zisi 2001 {published data only}
  • Zisi V, Michalopoulou M, Tzetzis G, Kioumourtzoglou E. Effects of a short-term exercise program on motor function and whole body reaction time in the elderly. Journal of Human Movement Studies 2001;40(2):145-60.

Additional references

  1. References to studies included in this review
  2. References to studies excluded from this review
  3. References to studies awaiting assessment
  4. Additional references
Baker 1985
  • Baker SP, Harvey AH. Fall injuries in the elderly. Clinics in Geriatric Medicine 1985;1(3):501-12.
Bellamy 1997
  • Bellamy N. Kirwan J. Boers M. Brooks P. Strand V. Tugwell P, et al. Recommendations for a core set of outcome measures in future phase III clinical trials in knee, hip, and hand osteoarthritis: consensus development at OMERACT III. Journal of Rheumatology 1997;24(4):799-802.
Berg 1989
  • Berg K. Balance and its measure in the elderly: A review. Physiotherapy Canada 1989;41(5):240-6.
Berg 1992
  • Berg KO, Wood-Dauphinee SL, Williams JI, Maki B. Measuring balance in the elderly: Validation of an instrument. Canadian Journal of Public Health 1992;83(Suppl 2):S7-11.
Campbell 1997
  • Campbell AJ, Robertson MC, Gardner MM, Norton RN, Tilyard MW, Buchner DM. Randomised controlled trial of a general practice programme of home based exercise to prevent falls in elderly women. BMJ 1997;315(7115):1065-9.
Chandler 1996
Daubney 1999
Doherty 1993
Duncan 1990
Geiger 2001
  • Geiger RA, Allen JB, O'Keefe J, Hicks RR. Balance and mobility following stroke: effects of physical therapy interventions with and without biofeedback/forceplate training. Physical Therapy 2001;81(4):995-1005.
Gillespie 2004
  • Gillespie LD, Gillespie WJ, Robertson MC, Lamb SE, Cumming RG, Rowe BH. Interventions for preventing falls in elderly people (Cochrane Review). Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2004, Issue 3. [Art. No.: CD000340. DOI: ]
Huxham 2001
Lamb 2006
  • Lamb S. personal communication 27 November 2006.
Latham 2004
  • Latham N, Anderson C, Bennett D, Stretton C. Progressive resistance strength training for physical disability in older people (Cochrane Review). Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2004, Issue 3.
Madhok 2006
  • Madhok R, Shaw LJ, Elliott J, Gillespie LD. Bone, Joint and Muscle Trauma Group (formerly the Musculoskeletal Injuries Group). In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 4, 2006. Chichester: Wiley. Updated quarterly.
Mills 1994
Nevitt 1989
  • Nevitt MC, Cummings SR, Kidd S, Black D. Risk factors for recurrent nonsyncopal falls: a prospective study. JAMA 1989;261:2663-8.
Podsiadlo 1991
  • Podsiadlo D, Richardson S. The timed 'Up and Go': A test of basic functional mobility for frail elderly persons. Journal of the American Geriatric Society. 1991;39(2):142-8.
Robertson 2001
  • Robertson MC, Devlin N, Gardner MM, Campbell AJ. Effectiveness and economic evaluation of a nurse delivered home based exercise programme to prevent falls. 1: Randomised controlled trial. BMJ 2001;322(7288):697-701.
Robinson 2002
  • Robinson KA, Dickerson K. Development of a highly sensitive search strategy for the retrieval of reports of controlled trials using PubMed. International Journal of Epidemiology 2002;31(1):150-3.
Skinner 1984
  • Skinner HB, Barrack RL, Cook SD. Age-related decline in proprioception. Clinical Orthopedics and Related Research 1984;(184):208-11.
Stelmach 1994
  • Stelmach GE. Physical activity and aging: Sensory and perceptual processing. In: Bouchard C, Shepard RJ, Stephens T editor(s). Physical fitness and health. Champaign: Human Kinetics, 1994.
Tinetti 1988
Verhagen 1998
  • Verhagen AP, D Vet HC, De Bie RA, Kessels AG, Boers M, Bouter LM, et al. The Delphi list: a criteria list for quality assessment of randomized clinical trials for conducting systematic reviews developed by Delphi consensus. Journal of Clinical Epidemiology 1998;51(12):1235-41.
Walker 2000
WHO 2001
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Winter 1995
  • Winter DA. A.B.C. Anatomy, biomechanics and control of balance during standing and walking. Waterloo, Ont: Waterloo Biomechanics, 1995.
Wolf 1996
  • Wolf SL, Barnhart HX, Kutner NG, McNeely E, Coogler C, Xu T. Reducing frailty and falls in older persons: an investigation of Tai Chi and computerized balance training. Atlanta FICSIT Group. Frailty and Injuries: Cooperative Studies of Intervention Techniques. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 1996;44(5):489-97.
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