Balance-Based Recreational Therapy Program: Examining the Association Between Postural Stability and Falls Efficacy in People with Parkinson’s Disease

Falls are a major cause of injury, loss of independence, and fear among individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Community-based Recreational therapy (CBRT) balance programs aim to mitigate fall risk by improving balance and enhancing confidence in balance-related activities alongside peers. This study examines the relationship between postural sway, postural stability, and perceived balance confidence in people with PD. For six months, three older adults with PD (72±12) engaged in a structured balance training program emphasizing strength, stability, and proprioception. Monthly assessments of postural sway, stability, and self-reported perceived balance confidence scores were analyzed for statistical and clinical relevance. Findings indicate a moderate correlation between improved balance measures and higher perceived balance confidence scores, suggesting that better balance performance leads to increased confidence in functional movement. These results highlight the significance of structured balance training in fall prevention strategies and underscore the role of recreational therapy in promoting balance and confidence. The practical implications and potential directions for future research are examined.