The Acceptability of a Community-Based Perturbation-Based Balance Training to Older Adults and Healthcare Professionals

Abstract

Background: Perturbation-based balance training (PBT) is a promising fall risk reduction method that involves inducing unexpected perturbations to balance to train participants reactive balance control. Due to the unpredictable nature of PBT, its acceptability to older adults could present a barrier to the implementation of PBT in the community. Aim/Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the perceived acceptability of a community-based PBT program to both older adults and healthcare professionals (HCPs). Methods: Nineteen older adults (aged 69.6 ± 6.6 years, 17 women, 2 men) and three HCPs participated in the qualitative study. Participants completed four PBT sessions facilitated in conjunction with HCPs. Interviews, based on the theoretical framework of acceptability, were conducted before and after PBT and analyzed using template analysis. Results: PBT was perceived as effective by older adults and HCPs. However, HCPs perceived the equipment cost as a substantial barrier to feasibility in the community.