The Importance of Physical Therapy in the Evaluation of Fall Prevention Programs in Older Adults: A Scoping Review

Abstract

The rapidly growing population of elderly individuals worldwide poses a significant public health concern due to the increased risk of falls and their associated consequences. Falls affect up to 30% of those older than 60 years and are the leading cause of injuries in this age group, with the oldest old being the most vulnerable. This review summarizes fall risk assessment methods and fall prevention programs for elderly individuals. This scoping review aims to identify exercise protocols aimed at reducing the risk of falling in elderly individuals. The authors used the PRISMA-ScR recommendation for scoping reviews and searched several databases for studies published between 2010 and 2020. Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria and were assessed for methodological quality and risk of bias using the PEDro scale. All selected articles presented strong data for the reduction and prevention of falls in the elderly individuals by using specific training programs based on strength and muscle balance exercises. The best results were those protocols lasting more than 18 weeks, performed 2 to 3 times a week, with 60 minutes' duration. Physiotherapeutic exercise protocols are, therefore, an excellent option for reducing the risk of falls in elderly individuals, in addition to promoting a better quality of life.