STRENGTH, BALANCE, FUNCTION IN ELDERLY-BALANCE TRAINING VS TRADITIONAL EXERCISE

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This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. This study will evaluate an ongoing, progressive "balance" program and a traditional community-based fitness program in the elderly. Initial sessions in the progressive program focus on center of gravity in static and dynamic situations, on the different sensory systems involved in balance, and the muscle groups that are most likely to need work. Participants are introduced to the concepts of stability, speed, and agility throughout the program. Anecdotally, this program appears to result in better functional improvements and better retention and interest than the traditional exercise program for the elderly. Preliminary information on strength, balance and function of participants completing these programs is necessary to justify further study.