A Pilot Study of an Intervention Designed to Promote Walking, Balance, and Self-Efficacy in Older Adults with Fear of Falling

John Dattilo, Lynn Martire, Jinger Gottschall, Elizabeth Weybright

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

There is a need to provide interventions that are of interest to older adults who are not inclined to participate in conventional exercise programs and that can improve balance and fear of falling. One purpose of this pilot study was to assess feasibility and acceptability of an eight-week (3x/wk, 90-minute sessions) multifaceted, small group, experiential, and educational walking program (B-Active). Another purpose of this exploratory study was to evaluate effects of B-Active on six ambulatory older adults, ages 77-89 (M = 84), who had a fear of falling and were not currently engaged in a high level of physical activity. Findings indicated the feasibility and acceptability of the B-Active program. Preliminary data suggest the intervention resulted in positive outcomes for older adults' concerning their walking self-efficacy and actual walking (daily steps taken and improved gait). In addition, there was evidence suggesting that balance and balance self-efficacy were enhanced.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)26-39
Number of pages14
JournalEducational Gerontology
Volume40
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2014

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Education
  • Geriatrics and Gerontology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A Pilot Study of an Intervention Designed to Promote Walking, Balance, and Self-Efficacy in Older Adults with Fear of Falling'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this