Exercise for reducing fear of falling in older people living in the community (Cochrane review)

This systematic review assesses the effects of exercise interventions for reducing fear of falling in older people living in the community.

Searches were performed in the Cochrane Bone, Joint and Muscle Trauma Group Specialised Register, the Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, AMED, the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and Current Controlled Trials.

30 studies were included, evaluating 3D exercise (Tai Chi and yoga), balance training or strength and resistance training. In total 2878 participants were included in these trials.

Authors conclude that exercise interventions probably reduce fear of falling to a limited extent immediately after the intervention, without increasing the risk or frequency of falls.

This Cochrane review (2014 Nov 28) is available epub ahead of print here