Effect of the Otago Exercise Programme Combined With Tai Chi Exercises on Reducing the Risk of Fall in Elderly
Abstract
Background. Falls are a common and serious concern among older adults, especially women, leading to reduced independence, balance problems, and increased mortality. Exercise interventions such as the Otago Exercise Programme (OEP) and Tai Chi (TC) have individually shown efficacy in reducing fall risk by improving balance, strength, and mobility.
Aim. To evaluate the combined effect of the Otago Exercise Programme and Tai Chi on fall risk, balance, and mobility in senior Indian women.
Methods. A pre- and post-experimental study was conducted involving 30 women aged 55–70 years, randomised into three equal groups: Otago Exercise Programme only (OEP, 50 minutes/session, 3 times/week), combined Tai Chi and Otago Exercise Programme (OEP + TC, 50 minutes OEP + 30 minutes Tai Chi, 3 times/week), and a control group (walking 30 minutes, 3 times/week). Outcomes were assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test for mobility, Berg Balance Scale (BBS) for balance, and Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I) to measure fear of falling. Data analyses included paired t-tests for within-group comparisons and one-way ANOVA for between-group differences.
Results. Significant improvements were observed in TUG, BBS, and FES-I scores post-intervention in both OEP and OEP + TC groups (p < 0.001). The combined OEP + TC group demonstrated the greatest gains in balance and mobility compared with OEP alone and control groups. Fear of falling was significantly reduced in intervention groups. ANOVA revealed statistically significant between-group differences favouring the combined exercise protocol for TUG and BBS (p < 0.05).
Conclusions. Integrating the Otago Exercise Programme with Tai Chi yields superior improvements in balance, mobility, and reduction of fall risk among senior Indian women compared to Otago exercises alone or walking. This combined exercise approach is recommended for fall prevention in elderly populations.
Keywords: fall risk; balance; Otago Exercise Programme; Tai Chi
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