The Effects of Dual-Task Exercises Performed Through Telerehabilitation on Balance, Falls, Cognitive Function, and Sleep Quality in Geriatric Individuals: A Randomised Control Trial

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how dual-task exercises, which combine physical and cognitive activities, delivered through telerehabilitation, affect balance, fall risk, cognitive functions, and sleep quality in older adults aged 65 to 74 years. Aging often leads to balance problems, higher fall risk, cognitive decline, and poor sleep, all impacting quality of life. This study explores whether remote dual-task training can improve these issues and support safer, more independent living for geriatric individuals. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. The telerehabilitation group performs supervised dual-task exercises at home three times a week for four weeks via video calls with a physiotherapist. Each 60-minute session includes warm-up, combined motor and cognitive tasks targeting balance, posture, and mental functions, and cool-down. The control group receives an educational brochure covering posture, balance, sleep hygiene, and safe activity, with weekly phone calls to encourage adherence but no supervised sessions. Throughout the study, researchers assess participants' balance, fall risk and fear, sleep quality, gait, functional mobility, mental state, and cognitive function at the start, after four weeks, and one month later. The physiotherapist monitors exercise form and safety during sessions. This approach aims to provide accessible, remote rehabilitation to improve physical and cognitive health in older adults while reducing barriers to care. The study runs from February to June 2026 with follow-up assessments after completion.

Effects of Telerehabilitation-Based Dual-Task Exercises on Balance, Fall Risk, Cognitive Function, and Sleep Quality in Geriatric Individuals