The Effects of Light-Targeted Balance Training on Balance, Functional Performance, and Fear of Falling in Individuals With a History of Falls: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The Effects of Light-Targeted Balance Training on Balance, Functional Performance, and Fear of Falling in Individuals With a History of Falls: A Randomized Controlled Trial

In recent years, exercise programs based on visual stimuli have been reported to improve balance and motor control (Okubo et al., 2019; Sherrington et al., 2019). However, studies investigating the effects of light-targeted balance training on balance, functional performance, and fear of falling in individuals with a history of falls are limited.

The aim of this study is to determine the effects of light-targeted balance training on balance, functional performance, and fear of falling in individuals with a history of falls. In addition, the study aims to investigate whether this training method provides additional benefits compared with traditional balance training. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the development of rehabilitation programs aimed at preventing falls.

Inclusion Criteria:

• History of at least one fall within the past 12 months
• Age 18 years or older
• Ability to walk independently or with an assistive device
• Ability to understand and follow verbal and visual instructions
• Voluntary participation in the study and provision of written informed consent by signing the informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

• Acute orthopedic injury or an active musculoskeletal condition causing pain
• History of lower extremity surgery within the past 6 months
• Advanced neurological disorders (e.g., advanced Parkinson's disease, advanced dementia)
• Severe vestibular dysfunction or significant visual impairment
• Medical conditions that contraindicate exercise due to severe cardiovascular disease
• Advanced systemic diseases that severely affect balance