Comparison of Square Stepping Exercise and Wobble Board Exercise in Elderly Population

Comparison of Square Stepping Exercise and Wobble Board Exercise on Cognition, Balance and Fall Risk in Elderly Population

Cognitive decline and balance issues are key contributors to falls. Square Stepping Exercise (SSE) and Wobble Board Exercise (WBE) both are the promising forms of balance training. Therefore, the aim of this study is to compare these two exercises to determine their effects on cognition, balance, and fall risk in elderly population.

The study in 2016 described the effects of square stepping exercises versus traditional balance exercises on improving balance and reducing fear of falling in the elderly. The Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and Fall Efficacy Scale (FES) were used for assessments. Both groups showed significant improvements in BBS and TUG scores (p<0.0001), but the square stepping exercise group demonstrated more significant gains. The study concluded that square stepping exercises were more effective in enhancing balance and reducing fear of falling compared to traditional balance exercises.This study addresses a notable gap in existing literature by comparing the effects of Square Stepping Exercise and Wobble Board Exercise in improving cognition, balance, and fall risk among the elderly. While both exercises have been recognized individually for their benefits, but their comparative effectiveness remains understudied. By focusing on this comparison, this study aim is to fill this gap and offer valuable insights into the most effective intervention for enhancing functional independence and promoting healthy aging.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Elderly individuals age 60 years and above of both genders according to the guidelines of World Health Organization (WHO).
• Participants whose Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) score will be >24/30 ensuring sufficient cognitive ability to follow instructions and participate in exercise.
• Participants whose Berg Balance Scale scores of more than 41/56 ensuring that the participants have moderate level of balance ability.
• Vital signs within normal range for elderly population.
• Ability to walk independently with or without an assistive device (e.g., canes).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Participants who have severe musculoskeletal or neurological disorders affecting gait or balance (e.g., Parkinson's disease, and stroke) because of the complex impacts of these conditions on general cognitive and physical functions.
• Participants who undergoes recent fractures or injuries affecting participation in physical activity.
• Participants who have uncontrolled cardiovascular or metabolic conditions (e.g., uncontrolled hypertension, and diabetes mellitus) that could significantly interfere with exercise.