Date of Award

1997

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Physical Therapy (MPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Beverly Johnson

Keywords

Accidental Falls; Aged; Exercise Therapy

Abstract

p>As the elderly population grows, the health care needs of people over the age of sixty-five will dominate the medical profession. Methods of prevention of health problems are key to providing the optimal medical care. Falling has been reported as the most prevalent means of injury in older people. One third of all seniors living in the community and one half of those residing in nursing homes fall each year. Research indicates that elderly people who fall have weaker lower extremity strength than elderly people who do not fall. As a result, some clinicians have incorporated strengthening regiments into fall prevention programs created for the elderly.

The purpose of this independent study is to provide a comprehensive literature review of the current use and efficacy of strength training to reduce the muscular deficits and subsequent falls that occur in the elderly population. Recommendations for lower extremity strength training for future fall intervention programs will also be included.

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