A new meta-analysis looked at whether exercise therapy helps community-dwelling older adults with chronic conditions improve their balance and mobility. The analysis included 857 people.
The researchers found that exercise led to significant improvements in two tests: the One-Leg Stance test, which measures how long someone can stand on one leg, and the Timed Up and Go test, which measures how quickly someone can get up from a chair and walk a short distance. The improvements were statistically significant, but the researchers note that the certainty and clinical importance of these effects remain uncertain.
The analysis did not establish that exercise reduces falls or fear of falling. Safety information, such as adverse events, was not reported. The study also did not report funding or conflicts of interest.
What this means for readers: exercise may help some older adults with chronic conditions improve certain balance and mobility measures, but it is not clear whether this translates into fewer falls. People should talk to their doctor before starting a new exercise program, especially if they have chronic conditions or are at risk of falling.
