THE INFLUENCE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF OUTDOOR WALKS, INTEGRATED WITH A RECREATIONAL PROGRAMME, ON ENHANCING LOWER LIMB STRENGTH AND MOTOR BALANCE IN INDIVIDUALS AGED 55 TO 65. (LITERATURE REVIEW)

Moderate-intensity exercise significantly reduces the incidence of falls in older adults. Additional extensive research is necessary to evaluate the efficacy of group exercise programs in community environments for at-risk older adults, particularly for enhancements in physical functioning and fall prevention among this demographic. This study seeks to evaluate the effects of a year-long group exercise program, supplemented by home-based exercises, on balance, muscle strength, response time, physical functioning, health conditions, and the decrease in fall incidence in at-risk older individuals living in nursing care facilities. Studies suggest that exercise regimens may improve strength and gait endurance, perhaps reducing the frequency of falls in healthy, undamaged older persons. This study utilized a literature review methodology focused on an extensive examination of research, primarily from the past decade, regarding the effects of walking and strength training on balance in the elderly, fall prevention, and related hypotheses and validated questionnaires. This comparative review of around 56 articles regarding the effects of walking and strength training on balance and fall prevention in the elderly provides a basis for future research. The integration of a group fitness program, supplemented by home-based activities, is expected to improve balance and reduce the incidence of falls among the elderly.