Effects on centre-based training and home-based training on physical function, quality of life and fall incidence in community dwelling older adults

Abstract

This was a quasi-experimental study to compare the effects of center-based training with home-based training on physical function, quality of life and fall incidence in older adults. Fifty older adults were recruited to receive exercise training for 6 months. Participants in the center-based group received training under supervision of a physiotherapist at the day training center. Those in the home-based group received training assisted by a care worker at home. The outcome measures were the Elderly Mobility Scale (EMS), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Short-form 12 (SF-12) and fall incidence. Assessments were performed on all participants before and after the 6-month intervention period. Center-based training supervised by a physiotherapist was found to have beneficial effects on physical function, quality of life and fall incidence while home-based training assisted by a care worker had no effect on physical condition and self-rated health status in community dwelling older adults. Service agents should provide center-based or home-based training to the ageing population in a user-friendly way with consideration of factors such as rehabilitation potential and accessibility of transportation.

• Center-based
• effectiveness
• home-based

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank for the generous support on subject recruitment and coordination from Ms C. S. Kong (Service manager), Mr L. P. Kwong (Physiotherapist I) and Mr M. K. Lee (Occupational therapist I) of the Wong Tai Sin Enhanced Home and Community Care Service, Christian Family Service Centre.