Face-to-Face Training Shows Greater Short-Term Gains Than Remote in Fall Prevention Program for Older Adults

This randomized controlled trial compared two sequences of a combined-modality fall prevention program in community-dwelling adults aged 65+. One group received 3 months of remote Otago-based training followed by 3 months of face-to-face training, while the comparator received the opposite sequence. The study assessed outcomes at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months, with follow-up at 6 months post-intervention.

Face-to-face training led to greater short-term improvements in Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Sit-to-Stand scores (p = 0.04 and p = 0.01, respectively), though absolute numbers and effect sizes were not reported. These differences diminished after participants transitioned to the other modality, with no sequence effect observed. Physical gains were partly maintained at follow-up. For fall outcomes, there was no significant group difference (RR = 1.11, p = 0.66).

Safety data showed two non-severe falls per modality occurred during training, with serious adverse events not reported. Attendance and satisfaction were similarly high for both approaches. The study's practice relevance suggests remote training is acceptable and safe for community-dwelling older adults, and combined-modality programs can incorporate advantages of both delivery methods. Key limitations include an unreported sample size, some outcomes reported with p-values only without confidence intervals or absolute numbers, and findings from a single RCT.