OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of unsupervised home and supervised group exercise on parameters related to risk of falling among older adults. DESIGN: Prospective, single-blind, randomized and controlled trial. SETTING: Nursing home. SUBJECTS: The subjects were selected from 535 independent individuals who resided in a nursing home. Forty-two older adults, aged > 65 years, with risk of falling were recruited, and 32 of them completed the study. INTERVENTION: The 42 subjects were divided into two groups (unsupervised home exercise and supervised exercise group) randomly. Exercise sessions were performed three times a week for a period of eight weeks. MAIN MEASURES: Measurements were taken at baseline and after the completion of the exercise programme. The fear of falling was evaluated using a visual analogue scale, quadriceps muscle strength was measured with a dynamometer, flexibility was assessed with the sit and reach test, functional mobility was determined using the Timed Up and Go Test, balance was evaluated using one-leg and tandem standing, and Berg Balance Scale and proprioception was assessed with knee position sense. RESULTS: Thirty-two subjects (unsupervised home exercise n = 15, supervised group exercise n = 17) completed the exercise programme and all of the measurements. The unsupervised home exercise group showed significant improvement in balance, functional mobility and flexibility (p > 0.05). In addition to balance, functional mobility and flexibility, the supervised exercise group also showed significant improvements in both strength and proprioception (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Supervised group exercise is more effective at reducing the risk factors related to falling among older adults living in a nursing home than is unsupervised home exercise.

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