MULTICOMPONENT PROGRAMS OF PHYSICAL THERAPY AS AN EFFECTIVE TOOL FOR THE PREVENTION OF FALLS IN ELDERLY PEOPLE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/pub.health.2026.1.21Keywords:
older adults, falls, frailty, impaired balance, sarcopenia, age-related changesAbstract
Topicality. According to current data from the WHO, population ageing is one of the leading demographic trends in the modern world. Ageing processes are accompanied by a decline in the body’s adaptive capacity, which is manifested in reduced physical endurance, slower reaction time, and impaired ability to maintain balance. This increases the risk of falls, which are among the most common causes of injuries, loss of independence, and decreased quality of life in older adults.
The problem of fall prevention remains relevant and attracts the attention of specialists in the fields of medicine, rehabilitation, and public health. Regular physical exercise improves functional status, strengthens muscles and balance, thereby contributing to a reduction in fall risk. Modern protocols are based on risk screening, comprehensive assessment, and a multidisciplinary approach with a leading role of physical therapy.
The goal of this study is to analyze current evidence on the effectiveness of physical therapy interventions, including strength and coordination exercises, in reducing fall risk among older adults with a history of falls.
Materials and methods. This study is based on the analysis of recent open-access literature to summarize evidence on the role of physical therapy in fall prevention among older adults. Publications from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar over the past 10 years were reviewed, with priority given to systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and randomized controlled trials.
Research results. The results indicate that multicomponent physical therapy programs combining strength exercises and balance training effectively enhance muscle strength, improve postural control, and reduce fall risk, thereby supporting their use in maintaining functional independence among older adults.
Conclusions. Falls in older adults are multifactorial and associated with age-related changes, chronic conditions, reduced muscle strength, impaired balance, and cognitive decline. Physical therapy is an effective preventive strategy, as it improves postural control and coordination. Multicomponent programs combining strength and balance training appear to be the most effective. An individualized approach to their prescription is essential, supporting their use to maintain functional independence and quality of life among older adults.
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