Effectiveness of 4 - Weeks Pilates Training Programme on Balance and Risk of Fall in Older Adults with Assisted Living Facility

Background: Pilates, a type of exercise, targets to improve core stability, strength, flexibility, muscle control, posture and breathing. By improving strength, balance, and gait through the practice of Pilates, the attitude of avoiding activities, due to fear of falls, can be prevented in older age groups. Objective: To study the effect of 4 - weeks Pilates training programme on balance and risk of fall in older adults with assisted living facility. Method: 30 participants were selected as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Subjects were assessed by the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) prior to commencement of training. A 60 minutes Pilates session was carried out thrice a week for 4 weeks. At the end of 4 weeks the subjects were re - assessed by the Timed Up and GO test and the Berg Balance Scale. The data collected was statistically analyzed. Results: The Timed Up and Go test and the Berg Balance Scale show statistically significant improvements, with p - values less than0.001 in both measurements. Conclusion: This study concludes that Pilates intervention for older adults residing in assisted living facilities can improve their static and dynamic balance thus reducing the risk of fall.