Year: 2025 | Month: December | Volume: 12 | Issue: 12 | Pages: 483-492
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijrr.20251251
Effects of Multicomponent Exercise Programs on Balance Function and Fall Risk in Older Adults: A Systematic Review
Panji Sananta1, Respati S. Dradjat1, Agung Riyanto Budi Santoso1, Adhi Satriyo Utomo1
1Department of Orthopedic and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya – Dr. Saiful Anwar General Hospital, Malang, Indonesia
Corresponding Author: Panji Sananta
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Population aging is a global issue, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to health complications, including frailty and falls. Frailty, characterized by physical decline, increases the risk of falls, which can severely impact the quality of life in older adults. Multicomponent exercise programs (MEPs), which include strength, balance, flexibility, and aerobic exercises, have been identified as an effective strategy for improving balance and reducing fall risk. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of MEPs on balance, functional capacity, and fall risk reduction in older adults, based on randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar from January 2012 to December 2022. Studies included were RCTs involving healthy older adults aged 60 or above, residing in the community or institutions. The interventions consisted of MEPs lasting at least 4 weeks and held twice per week. The outcomes assessed were balance, functional performance (SPPB, TUG, BBS), and fall risk. Exclusion criteria included studies without a control group or insufficient data.
Results: Ten studies were included in the review. The majority of studies showed significant improvements in functional capacity, balance, and reductions in fall risk. Multicomponent exercises were found to enhance strength, mobility, and balance, effectively reducing fall risk in elderly participants. The TUG test was the most commonly used outcome measure.
Conclusion: MEPs significantly improve balance and functional capacity and reduce fall risk in older adults. These programs are an effective strategy for fall prevention.
Keywords: balance, elderly, fall risk, frailty, multicomponent exercise
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