Turkish Journal of Geriatrics 2014 , Vol 17, Issue 4
HOW EFFECTIVE ARE EXERCISE RECOMMENDATIONS SUPPORTED BY WRITTEN AND VISUAL MATERIALS IN ELDERLY PEOPLE?
Fatma BAÅžALAN Ä°Z1, Emrah ATAY2
1Süleyman Demirel Üniversitesi Hemşirelik Fakültesi ISPARTA
2Mehmet Akif Ãœniversitesi Spor HekimliÄŸi BURDUR
Introduction: This study examines the effects of exercise recommendations supported by written and visual materials on physical parameters, balance, fear of falling and quality of life.

Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study was carried out in Isparta, Turkey. The sample consisted of 32 elders. The research data were collected during home visits. The data collection tools included the Fullerton Balance Scale, Tinetti Falls Efficacy Scale, World Health Organization Quality of Life-Short Form, Turkish Version, and handgrip-back-leg strength measurements.

Results: The mean score for Tinetti Falls Efficacy Scale was lower in overweight individuals based on Body Mass Index. The mean score for Fullerton Balance Scale was significantly lower in the elderly who have fear of falling. The initial exercise rate of 31.3% increased to 43.8% at the end of the study.

Conclusion: In general, the verbal instructions alone were found to be ineffective. However, this study has demonstrated that when healthcare professionals support their verbal exercise recommendations with written and visual materials, they can make a positive contribution. Keywords : Exercise; Fall; Aged; Accidental Falls; Postural Balance; Fear; Outcome Assessment (Health Care)