Comparison the effect of Otago and chair squat exercises on the fear of falling and the quality of life of the older adults, a clinical trial study

BACKGROUND: Staying at home limits older people's physical activity and increases their fear of falling. Also, their physiological and psychological problems lead to decrease in physical activity, which affects their quality of life. AIMS: The aim of this study was to help use a cost-effective, and less complicated method to reduce the fear of falling and improve the quality of life of the aged people. METHODS: A total of 126 aged people (over the age of 60) participated in this study, which lasted 8 weeks (three 45-min sessions per week at home). The participants were divided into three Chair squat, Otago, and control groups randomly. Fear of falling and quality of life scores were evaluated before and after the intervention. The data were analyzed using SPSS software. RESULTS: Before the study, there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of fear of falling and quality of life. After the intervention, the Otago was more effective than chair squat exercise in reducing the average score of the fear of falling, but there was no significant difference between the intervention groups in terms of quality of life. DISCUSSION: Both Otago and chair squat exercises were cost-effective and less complicated methods that helped reduce fear of falling and improve the quality of life of the older adults. CONCLUSION: Performing the Otago and chair squat exercises at home was effective in reducing fear of falling and improving quality of life of the older adults. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: IRCT20150519022320N29 on July21, 2023.