Objective: Compare effects of individualized exercise program (IEP) with generic group-based exercise program (GBEP) on balance, gait, and functional performance of residential older adults with mild balance dysfunction. Methods: Randomized IEP (n = 60) or GBEP (n = 60). Measured BioSway balance, reach (MDRT), function (PPT), strength, gait (baseline, 9 weeks); and for IEP, BioSway/PPT at 13 weeks. Results: Significant improvement for IEP versus GBEP on BioSway limits/postural stability, all MDRT directions, hip/knee/ankle strength, PPT, and gait ( P = 0.012 or less) after 9 weeks, with effect sizes greatest for limits of stability and MDRT. IEP improved all variables over time, with gains retained 13 weeks except Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Integration of Balance.
Introduction: Digital health interventions (DHI) may improve mobility, quality of life, and health outcomes in frail older adults. Methods: A scoping review was completed for studies on rehabilitation-based DHI for frail adults ≥55 years published between January 2020 and February 2026. Results: Twenty studies were eligible for inclusion in the review. The most common DHI were mobile devices and apps, and wearable sensors. Studies assessed efficacy, adherence, usability/feasibility, user experiences, safety, and cost-effectiveness of the interventions. Conclusion: Asynchronous DHI may improve mobility, health behaviors, and frailty status in frail older adults. There are a growing number of devices that are accessible and easy to use.
Purpose: To examine the effectiveness and feasibility of self-applied quadriceps kinesiotaping (KT) and/or a home exercise program (HEP) in older adults with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Methods: Seventy-five adults (older than 50 years) with knee OA were randomized to KT-only, KT + HEP, or HEP-only for 4 weeks after a single instructional session. Outcomes included pain, strength, balance, ROM, and knee function (ShortMAC). Results: All groups improved; KT + HEP demonstrated superior gains across all outcomes ( P < .001; effect size = 0.50-0.82). Adherence exceeded 85% in all groups. Conclusion: Self-applied quadriceps KT is feasible and effective in knee OA, with KT + HEP producing the greatest benefit.
Background: Telehealth rehabilitation is increasing in prevalence for aging adults with Parkinson disease. It is unknown whether measures used to assess the impact of Parkinson disease are reliable and valid in the virtual environment. Methods: Nineteen individuals completed in-person and telehealth sessions. Construct validity and interrater reliability for the Berg Balance Scale were evaluated. Results: Construct validity showed a large relationship between the in-person and telehealth assessments. All raters had excellent interrater reliability in-person and moderate reliability virtually. Conclusion: The Berg Balance Scale is reliable, valid, and can be administered to people with early-stage Parkinson disease in the telehealth setting.
