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Reducing Fall Risk in Older Adults with COPD: Pilot Study to Test the Efficacy of a Home-Based Exercise Program with
Amanda Bates1,2, Susan Furber1,3, Heidi Gilchrist2,4
1Health Promotion Service, Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia.
International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
|September 17, 2025
Summary
Older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can improve balance and strength with a home-based exercise program. This pilot study showed the program was feasible and acceptable, suggesting it can reduce fall risk in this population.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Pulmonology
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Older adults with COPD face an elevated risk of falls compared to their peers.
- Home-based exercise programs offer a viable solution for improving balance and strength in older adults.
- Virtual care delivery models can enhance accessibility for individuals with COPD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To pilot test a 6-month home-based balance and strength exercise program for individuals aged 50 and over with COPD.
- To assess the program's impact on strength, balance, and fall risk.
- To evaluate the program's feasibility and acceptability within a virtual care context.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving adults aged 50+ with COPD who accessed virtual care.
- Participants engaged in a 6-month home-based exercise program focused on balance and strength.
- Outcomes were measured using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and alternate step test, alongside fall history and program acceptability surveys.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements were observed in SPPB scores from baseline to 6 months (effect size 2.01) and between 3 and 6 months (effect size 1.65).
- The alternate step test showed significant improvements of over 3 seconds by 3 months (effect size -3.30) and 4 seconds by 6 months (effect size -4.01).
- The program demonstrated high acceptability and feasibility, with participants intending to continue exercises and recommending the program.
Conclusions:
- A home-based exercise program delivered via virtual care significantly improved strength and balance in older adults with COPD.
- Despite completing exercises less frequently than recommended, participants showed measurable gains.
- The program is acceptable, feasible, and shows potential for reducing fall risk in this population.
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