Digital Fall-Prevention Exercises for Older Adults

This clinical trial is focused on reducing the risk of falls among older adults by using a digitally delivered exercise program known as Strong Foundations. This program is designed to help participants improve their balance, strength, and mobility, which are crucial in preventing falls. Falls are a significant concern for older individuals, as one fall can lead to more falls in the future. Unfortunately, many older adults do not regularly get asked about fall risk during medical visits, and the COVID-19 pandemic has made it harder for them to access community resources or stay active. The trial aims to make fall-prevention exercises more accessible by delivering them via the internet, which is particularly important during times of social distancing. Participants in this study will engage in a 12-week exercise program through the Zoom platform, where they will receive semi-individualized instruction in small groups. Exercises focus on improving postural alignment, balance, mobility, and muscular strength. The study will measure the effectiveness of the program through a simple test called the 30-Second Chair Stand, which assesses lower body strength and endurance by counting how many times a person can sit and stand from a chair in 30 seconds. The results will help determine whether this digital approach can effectively reduce fall risks and improve the overall health and independence of older adults. Additionally, the study will explore how exercise affects autophagy, a cellular process involved in maintaining healthy cell function, offering insights into the biological aspects of aging.