Comparative Effects of Balance and Otago Exercises on Fall Risk in Older Adults: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Background: Falls are a major public health problem among older adults, leading to injury, functional decline, and reduced quality of life. Balance Exercise and the Otago Exercise Programme are commonly used exercise-based interventions to reduce fall risk, yet direct comparative evidence remains limited.
Objective: To compare the effects of Balance Exercise and the Otago Exercise Programme on fall risk among older adults.
Methods: This quasi-experimental pre-test–post-test two-group study included 20 community-dwelling older adults aged 60–75 years with Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test scores >12 seconds. Participants were allocated to a Balance Exercise group (n = 10) or an Otago Exercise Programme group (n = 10). Both interventions were performed three times weekly for four weeks. Fall risk was assessed using the TUG Test. Paired and independent sample t-tests were applied (p < 0.05).
Results: Both groups showed significant reductions in TUG scores after the intervention (Balance Exercise: mean reduction = 3.00 seconds, p < 0.001; Otago Exercise Programme: mean reduction = 2.40 seconds, p < 0.001). No significant between-group difference was found in post-intervention TUG scores (mean difference = 0.90 seconds, p = 0.316).
Conclusion: Balance Exercise and the Otago Exercise Programme were similarly associated with improved functional mobility in older adults. Given the quasi-experimental design, results should be interpreted as comparative associations rather than causal effects. Both interventions may be considered feasible options for fall risk reduction in community settings.