Comparative Effects of Corrective and Otago Exercise Programs on Posture, Balance, and Functional Performance in Institutionalized Older Adults

Abstract

Purpose: Exercise interventions play a critical role in reducing fall risk and improving functional capacity in older adults. The Otago Exercise Program (OEP) is widely used for balance and mobility, while Corrective Exercise (CE) targets postural alignment and neuromuscular control. However, their relative effectiveness in institutionalized elderly populations remains unclear. Methods: This randomized controlled trial included 21 older adults residing in a nursing home, allocated to either the CE group (n=12) or the OEP group (n=9). Both interventions were delivered three times per week for eight weeks. Outcomes included postural alignment (New York Posture Assessment, overhead squat analysis), mobility (Timed Up and Go test), balance (Functional Reach Test), lower limb function (30-second Chair Stand Test), grip strength, and fear of falling (Visual Analog Scale). Pre- and post-intervention assessments were compared within and between groups using appropriate statistical tests. Results: Both CE and OEP produced significant within-group improvements in mobility, balance, grip strength, and fear of falling (p<0.05). Between-group comparisons did not show statistically significant differences in functional outcomes. CE demonstrated non-significant trends toward greater improvements in postural alignment and upper extremity strength, whereas OEP showed modest, non-significant advantages in ankle stability. Conclusion: CE and OEP are both feasible and beneficial exercise strategies for institutionalized older adults. Although no clear superiority was demonstrated, CE may provide additional postural benefits that warrant further exploration. Future studies with larger, more diverse samples and longer follow-up are needed to confirm these preliminary findings.

Keywords

• Corrective exercise
• Posture
• Balance
• Functional performance
• Older adults

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