A Pilot Study of an Intervention Designed to Promote Walking, Balance, and Self-Efficacy in Older Adults with Fear of Falling

Abstract

There is a need to provide interventions that are of interest to older adults who are not inclined to participate in conventional exercise programs and that can improve balance and fear of falling. One purpose of this pilot study was to assess feasibility and acceptability of an eight-week (3x/wk, 90-minute sessions) multifaceted, small group, experiential, and educational walking program (B-Active). Another purpose of this exploratory study was to evaluate effects of B-Active on six ambulatory older adults, ages 77–89 (M = 84), who had a fear of falling and were not currently engaged in a high level of physical activity. Findings indicated the feasibility and acceptability of the B-Active program. Preliminary data suggest the intervention resulted in positive outcomes for older adults' concerning their walking self-efficacy and actual walking (daily steps taken and improved gait). In addition, there was evidence suggesting that balance and balance self-efficacy were enhanced.

Notes

*Each value represents the average person mean across the seven days of a measurement burst.

**Burst 1 = baseline, Burst 2 = 5th week of program, Burst 3 = post intervention.