Otago Exercise Program Improves Physical Functional Performance and Reduces Falling Risk in Elderly Korean Women

Aims: To determine the effects of the Otago exercise program (OEP) on physical functional capacity and fear of falling. Methods: Elderly Korean women aged 75 to 84 years (n = 40) were nonrandomly assigned to the control (n = 12) or exercise (n = 36) group. The exercise group underwent a 6-month group-based OEP. Results: The exercise group had significant pre- to postintervention improvements in muscle quality index, walking speed, handgrip strength, 30-second chair stand test, 8-ft Timed Up and Go test, and short physical performance battery in conjunction with reduced fear of falling compared with the control group. Conclusion: The OEP is an effective fall prevention tool for elderly Korean women who are afraid of falling.