Feasibility of a Modified Otago Exercise Program for Older Adults With Cognitive Vulnerability

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neurology
• Public Health

Background:

• Cognitive vulnerability (dementia, depression, delirium) increases older adults' risk of physical inactivity and falls.
• Effective interventions are needed to promote physical activity and prevent falls in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of an in-home, modified Otago Exercise Program (OEP) for older adults with cognitive vulnerability.
• Feasibility was determined by acceptability (retention, adherence), safety (pain, falls), and potential benefits (physical performance).

Main Methods:

• Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial involving 80 participants receiving the modified OEP.
• Data collected on retention, adherence, pain intensity, falls, and the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) over 16 weeks.

Main Results:

• 64 out of 80 participants completed the program; 48% had depression, 22% dementia, 30% combined conditions.
• Home exercise adherence was low to moderate; pain remained stable. 31% reported non-OEP-related falls.
• SPPB scores significantly increased from 6.95 to 7.74 (p < .01).

Conclusions:

• The modified OEP demonstrates promising feasibility for older adults experiencing cognitive vulnerability.
• The program appears safe and potentially beneficial for improving physical performance in this demographic.