101.1 million people 65 years of age or older were anticipated to be living in EU member states as of early 2018; this represents more than 19.7%
of the total population. Over the following three decades, there is anticipated to be an increase in the number of senior citizens in the European
Union (EU), with a peak population of 149.2 million in 2050. Over the same time span, it is anticipated that their relative population share will progressively increase, reaching 28.5% in 2050. Increased life expectancy and a prolonged decline in fertility have been the primary drivers of population ageing. Every scientific theory either falls short of providing a comprehensive explanation for the traits seen in animals or runs counter to the widely accepted idea of evolution. There could be significant medical ramifications for this problem. If the aging process is caused by basic, unchangeable forces in nature, then anti aging research and medicine are hopeless and utopian. Research may find ways to change how the aging process functions if species-specific patterns govern aging, which would improve the management of many age-related illnesses and ailments (Goldsmith, 2014). Ageing is often associated with a steady decline in mental and physical health, a higher risk of addiction and disability, and an increase in the number of comorbidities (Latham et al., 2003; Henderson et al., 2009; Muhlberg & Sieber, 2004). This decline in health is the main cause of falls, one of the most common and serious public health problems. More than one-third of nursing home patients over 65 fall at least once a year, and half of them fall more than once (Rubenstein, 2006; Moreland et al., 2003). People who are older may experience a 60%
rate of decline (Rubenstein, 2006; Rubenstein & Josephson, 2002).
The Impact Of Walking And Otago Exercise Program On Improving Balance Parameters In The Elderly. (Literature Review)
Published in JPASE Journal (Volume 6, Issue 2, December 2023)
Abstract
Background: With increasing age, neuromuscular deficits (eg, sarcopenia) can result in impaired physical performance and increased risk of falls in those over 65 years of age. The main intrinsic risk factors for falls are age-related gradual decline in balance and strength/power performance, as well as other known factors. With the decline in fertility and the increase in the percentage of people over 65 years of age, additional studies are needed to develop exercise programs specifically tailored for the elderly, programs that can be easily implemented in clinical practice in home or nursing home settings. Objectives: The objectives of this literature review are to evaluate the causes and factors that cause falls at this age and to prove the effects of a preventive exercise program based on two main pillars; the OTAGO exercise program and walking. Knowledge of the relationship between balance, strength, and power is important for identifying individuals at risk because deficits in these neuromuscular components are associated with an increased risk of injury and falls. In addition, this knowledge is of great importance for the development of special exercise programs adapted to the physical condition of individuals of this age group. Improvements in balance, strength and power are directly related to health and quality of life.
Keywords
Falls prevention, ageing, nursing home support services, quality of life, older people, walking, OTAGO exercise program, balance, preventive care.
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