All Conference Presentations, Performances and Exhibits
Effects of the Lifestyle-integrated Functional Exercise (LiFE) Program on Fall Risk in Older Adults
Location
Guzman 104
Start Date
4-14-2016 7:00 PM
End Date
4-14-2016 7:15 PM
Student Type
Graduate
Faculty Mentor(s)
Kitsum Li, OTD, OTR/L
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
As the population and longevity of older adults increases, the prevalence of falls is becoming an ever-growing issue. One in three adults aged 65 years and older experience a fall each year. Falls can result in injuries ranging from mild to serious, and are the number one cause of accidental death for older adults. Falls may also lead to fear of falling, sedentary behavior, decreased independence, and lower quality of life. Current evidence has shown that tai chi, dual task, and other fall prevention programs emphasizing strength and balance exercises can decrease the risk of falling in older adults. However, traditional forms of exercise require specific structure and scheduling, and are difficult to sustain over time. Emerging evidence suggests that exercises that are integrated into daily life may have a more lasting effect in reducing fall risk in older adults.
Integration of exercise into lifestyle activities is defined as an intervention where physical exercises entailing endurance, strength, flexibility, and balance are incorporated into everyday activities and routines. Currently, several studies have shown that Integrated exercise programs may have the potential to decrease fall risk in older adults. This study will explore the effectiveness of the Lifestyle-integrated Functional Exercise (LiFE) program in decreasing fall risk in older adults with or without a fall history residing in residential facilities. Furthermore, this study will examine the sustainability of integrated exercise programs in decreasing fall risk.
Effects of the Lifestyle-integrated Functional Exercise (LiFE) Program on Fall Risk in Older Adults
Guzman 104
As the population and longevity of older adults increases, the prevalence of falls is becoming an ever-growing issue. One in three adults aged 65 years and older experience a fall each year. Falls can result in injuries ranging from mild to serious, and are the number one cause of accidental death for older adults. Falls may also lead to fear of falling, sedentary behavior, decreased independence, and lower quality of life. Current evidence has shown that tai chi, dual task, and other fall prevention programs emphasizing strength and balance exercises can decrease the risk of falling in older adults. However, traditional forms of exercise require specific structure and scheduling, and are difficult to sustain over time. Emerging evidence suggests that exercises that are integrated into daily life may have a more lasting effect in reducing fall risk in older adults.
Integration of exercise into lifestyle activities is defined as an intervention where physical exercises entailing endurance, strength, flexibility, and balance are incorporated into everyday activities and routines. Currently, several studies have shown that Integrated exercise programs may have the potential to decrease fall risk in older adults. This study will explore the effectiveness of the Lifestyle-integrated Functional Exercise (LiFE) program in decreasing fall risk in older adults with or without a fall history residing in residential facilities. Furthermore, this study will examine the sustainability of integrated exercise programs in decreasing fall risk.