Frenkel Exercises in Geriatric Balance and Fall Prevention

Overview

Aging is a natural process starting from birth and progressing through childhood and adulthood, marked by physical and mental decline, including musculoskeletal, cognitive, and motor deterioration. It often results in common conditions such as visual and hearing impairments, sleep disturbances, urinary incontinence, hypertension, dementia, cardiovascular diseases, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, gait abnormalities, and frequent falls. Osteoporosis contributes to decreased bone density and structural integrity, impairing posture and balance. Balance, maintained through the integration of vestibular, visual, and proprioceptive inputs, becomes impaired with aging, increasing fall risk and injury. Falls are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the elderly, affecting one-third of individuals over 65 annually. Risk factors are classified as intrinsic (e.g., muscle weakness, gait issues, chronic diseases) and extrinsic (e.g., poor lighting, unsafe flooring). Physical inactivity in older adults leads to reduced strength, endurance, flexibility, and overall functional health, requiring greater effort for daily tasks. Early detection of reduced physical fitness and the implementation of targeted exercise programs are essential to prevent functional decline and falls. Evidence supports the effectiveness of strength and balance exercises in reducing fall-related injuries and fear of falling. Exercise improves both physical and psychological well-being in older adults, enhancing social participation, flexibility, strength, bone mineral density, and spinal mobility. This study aims to investigate the effects of Frenkel's Stabilization Exercises on balance, physical performance, and fear of falling in healthy geriatric individuals.