Robert Citozi1, Klajdi Xhebexhiu1, Vlad Adrian Geantă2,3
1Sports University of Tirana, Faculty of Physical Activity and Recreation, Tirana, Albania
2Doctoral School of Sport Science and Physical Education, National University of Science and Technology Politehnica Bucharest, Pitesti University Center, Pitesti, Romania
3Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Arad, Romania
Effects of the Otago Exercise Program on Balance Among Nursing Home Residents: A 12-Week Quasi-Experimental Study
Sport Mont 2025, 23(2), Ahead of Print | DOI: 10.26773/smj.250611
Abstract
Balance impairments and fall risks significantly affect the well-being of nursing home residents, compromising mobility and independence. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive interventions that combine physical and psychological components. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a 12-week intervention with the Otago Exercise Program (OEP), on improving balance among nursing home residents aged 65 and older. A quasi-experimental design was implemented with 42 participants, divided into an experimental group (EG; n=24) and a control group (CG; n=18). The CG had an average age of 69.44±2.70 years, height of 162.22±9.08 cm, and weight of 65.78±17.99 kg, while the EG had an average age of 74.50±6.40 years, height of 159.50±11.31 cm, and weight of 76.97±14.83 kg. The experimental group engaged in structured OEP sessions with 3 sessions per week. Balance was assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Leonardo Mechanograph platform. The experimental group showed significant improvements in static and dynamic balance compared to the control group, particularly in tests requiring sensory integration and postural adjustments under challenging conditions (e.g., Romberg and Semi-Tandem with eyes closed). Functional mobility also improved, as evidenced by better performance in the Chair Raising Test. The OEP, effectively improves balance and mobility in nursing home residents, with assessments via the Leonardo platform confirming robust gains in functional and biomechanical metrics. These findings provide evidence for adopting multifaceted interventions in fall prevention strategies, particularly in resource-limited care settings.
Keywords
otago exercise, balance, older adults, nursing homes, health
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