Evaluation of Feasibility of a Balance and Strength Training Program for New Users of a Wheeled Walker in an Outpatient Rehabilitation Clinic

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The aims were to: 1) evaluate the feasibility of conducting an exercise intervention with new users of wheeled walkers above the age 65 years and; 2) determine if combined balance and muscle strength training affects balance and muscle strength compared to a control group. Methods: The intervention consisted of balance and strength training twice a week for 12 weeks. Feasibility of the study such as recruitment process, physiotherapists' adherence, and the participants' compliance were evaluated. Other outcome measures included balance and muscle strength. Results: The evaluation showed that the time to conduct and execute data collection was feasible. The recruitment rate was low and the instructor training too limited in how to progress the intervention. Balance and muscle strength showed no significant difference between groups. Conclusion: Strategies for recruiting participants and improving training of PTs who administered the intervention are important considerations for future clinical studies of this population.

KEYWORDS:

• elderly
• physical function
• physical activity
• assistive devices