Association Between Pilatis Exercise, Balance and Stability Measurements, and Quality of Life Among Elderly Population

Background: The elderly population in western countries and in Israel is constantly growing. Falls are one of the common problems among this population. Thus there is a need for falls prevention exercise program to be offered in the different settings elderly reside. Most methods for physical exercise are dedicated to muscle strengthening and improving balance by strengthening external muscles. Pilatis exercise program focuses mainly on strengthening the in-depth muscles. The advantage of this method is in its simplicity and availability. This method is suitable also for special populations as patients in acute hospitalization. In this study, the investigators will evaluate if the pilatis exercise can improve balance of elderly population. Physical exercise usually improves the mood. Like any physical exercise, Pilatis exercise has a mental advantage, therefore, this study will also examine if pilatis exercise can improve quality of life of elderly population.

Working hypothesis and aims: Pilatis exercise will improve balance and stability measurements, and quality of life among elderly population.

Methods: Randomized, prospective study among elderly patients aged 65 and above belonging to Clalit Health Services primary care clinic . Participants of the intervention and control group will receive a brochure that will include nutrition and healthy life style recommendations. Intervention group: will receive 12 weeks of pilatis exercise 3 times a week. The control group will be offered the same intervention at the end of the study period. Balance evaluation will be performed using the: Tinetti Balance Gait Scale, Berg Balance Scale, Multidirectional Reach Test, Timed Up and Go, Step execution test. The SF-36 questionnaire will be use to evaluate quality of life.

Importance: This study will examine the influence of pilatis exercise on balance among the elderly. If findings will determine that pilatis does improve balance in the elderly, the investigators can further examine pilatis's influence on falls prevention, and minimizing falls damages.

Probable implications to the welfare and health of the aged population:

Improving balance, falls preventing and minimizing falls damages among elderly; improvement in elderly quality of life.