Elderly population is increasing over the world .The problem is especially important because according prognosis for the beginning of this century, each fourth resident in Europe will be aged 65 or more. This will undoubtedly put a strain on health care, because it becomes one of the most important problems over the world. According to the statistic data of Lithuanian Statistics Department, at the beginning of 2005, there were 15,1% of the population aged 65 or more. In order to remain physically efficient and self-consistent at an advanced age, it is necessary to do daily exercises, as well as to practice other kinds of health related physical activities individually matched to physical abilities of a person. It should become a priority in each country. Balance is an important risk factor for falls in the elderly, and improvements in balance are vital to prevent falls and injuries from falls. The aim of this study was to demonstrate that specific physical exercises for older adults can help to improve their static and dynamic balance and confidence and thus to reduce their risk of falling. The following objectives were put forward: to assess balance and risk of falling of the elderly; to evaluate influence of specific physical exercises on balance changes and prevention of falls among elderly; to compare changes in static and dynamic balance and risk of falling between elderly of training and control groups. 33 community-dwelling elderly were enrolled in the study. The... [to full text]