Home-based exercise program and fall-risk reduction in older adults with multiple sclerosis: phase 1 randomized...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Geriatrics
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Older adults with multiple sclerosis (MS) face increased fall risk.
• Falls in MS can lead to injury, disability, and reduced quality of life.
• Current interventions may not adequately address fall risk in this demographic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of a home-based exercise intervention.
• To target fall risk factors including lower muscle strength and balance in older adults with MS.
• To provide evidence for a larger clinical trial.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled pilot trial involving 27 participants.
• Participants were assigned to a 12-week home-based exercise program or a waiting list control.
• Outcomes included fall risk (Physiological Profile Assessment), balance (Berg Balance Scale), and walking tests.

Main Results:

• The home-based exercise intervention was feasible and safe, with no adverse events reported.
• Participants in the exercise group showed a significant decrease in fall risk.
• Large effect sizes were observed for most outcome measures, indicating meaningful improvements.

Conclusions:

• Home-based exercise is a viable, safe, and effective strategy for reducing fall risk in older adults with MS.
• The findings strongly support the need for a larger randomized controlled trial.
• This intervention holds promise for improving mobility and reducing fall-related injuries in individuals with MS.