Citation

Geyer RL, Thompson T. J. Trauma Nurs. 2021; 28(3): 173-178.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, Society of Trauma Nurses)

DOI

10.1097/JTN.0000000000000579

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Falls remain the leading cause of injury-related death for 65 years and older. Matter of Balance is a well-documented community-based program designed to reduce participants' fear of falling. However, Matter of Balance classes' effect on physical measures remains less well studied.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the Matter of Balance program on balance, strength, and fall risk.

METHODS: This is a single-group pretest-posttest evaluation of balance and strength in community participants enrolled in 8-week Matter of Balance classes. Physical therapist assessments of the Functional Reach Test and five times sit-to-stand test at week 1 and week 8 were compared.

RESULTS: A total of 33 class participants were studied. The average improvement in the Functional Reach Test was M = 1.33 (SD = 1.6) inches and the five times sit-to-stand test was M = -3.24 (SD = 3.42) seconds; p <.05.

CONCLUSIONS: Matter of Balance classes resulted in improvement in both balance and strength. This study's findings support Matter of Balance classes' efficacy as a community-based program that can reduce a participant's physical risk for falls.

Language: en