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Rhythmic stepping exercise under cognitive conditions improves fall risk factors in community-dwelling older adults: preliminary results of a cluster-randomized controlled trial
Yamada M, Tanaka B, Nagai K, Aoyama T, Ichihashi N
Aging & Mental Health 2011;15(5):647-653
clinical trial
7/10 [Eligibility criteria: Yes; Random allocation: Yes; Concealed allocation: Yes; Baseline comparability: Yes; Blind subjects: No; Blind therapists: No; Blind assessors: Yes; Adequate follow-up: Yes; Intention-to-treat analysis: No; Between-group comparisons: Yes; Point estimates and variability: Yes. Note: Eligibility criteria item does not contribute to total score] *This score has been confirmed*

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this pilot trial was to evaluate whether a 24-week program of rhythmic stepping exercise (RSE) would be effective in improving physical function and reducing fear of falling in older adults. PARTICIPANTS: Four units (n = 52) randomized into an RSE group (two units, n = 25) and a non-rhythmic stepping exercise (NRSE) group (two units, n = 27) participated in a pilot cluster randomized controlled trial. METHODS: Each exercise group received 60 min group training sessions once a week for 24 weeks. Measurement was based on the difference in physical functions between the RSE and NRSE groups. RESULTS: Significant differences were observed between the two groups for locomotive function with significant group time interaction. Relative risk was calculated as 2.778 (95% CI 1.030 to 7.492) for fear of falling for participants in the NRSE group compared with patients in the RSE group (p = 0.037). CONCLUSIONS: The results of this pilot trial suggest that the RSE program is more effective in improving locomotive function and fear of falling.

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