title: Balance training in elderly women using public parks.
abstract: This study evaluates the effects of a balance training program developed in public parks on functionality and general state of health in elderly women. It was a randomized controlled trial. Women older than 65 years (n = 28; 68.5 ± 2.9) participated in a balance training program that lasted 6 weeks, with sessions taking place twice a week (12 exercises/session, 50 min). Balance was analyzed by the Berg Balance Scale and Timed Up & Go Test. The generic health status was measured by the SF-12 Health Survey. These tests showed statistically significant differences in the experimental group (p < .05). Public parks are adequate installations for developing balance.
authors.affiliation: a College of Physical Therapy , University of Vigo , Pontevedra , Spain.
authors.forename: Raquel
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Leiros-Rodríguez
authors.forename: José L
authors.initials: JL
authors.lastname: García-Soidan
mesh_terms: D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004856:Postural Balance; D011633:Public Facilities; D013030:Spain
keywords: elderly women; exercise therapy; postural balance