EFFECT OF HALLIWICK AQUATIC TRAINING ON DYNAMIC BALANCE IN COMMUNITY-DWELLING OLDER ADULTS: A PRE–POST EXPERIMENTAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Age-related reduction in balance contributes to an increased risk of falls and reduced functional independence in older adults. Aquatic therapy, particularly the Halliwick concept, provides a safe and supportive environment that may enhance postural control and dynamic balance. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a Halliwick aquatic training program on dynamic balance in community-dwelling older adults with impaired dynamic balance (Mini-BESTest ≤20/28) Methods: A single-group pre–post experimental study was conducted among 32 sedentary community-dwelling older adults aged 65–70 years. Participants completed a 4-week Halliwick aquatic training program comprising 12 supervised sessions (3 sessions/week, 45 minutes/session). Dynamic balance was assessed using the Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest) before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using a paired t-test. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: All 32 participants completed the intervention. Mean Mini-BESTest scores improved significantly from 16.28 ± 0.51 at baseline to 22.40 ± 0.69 following the intervention, with a mean difference of 6.13 points (95% CI: 6.05–6.20). The improvement was statistically significant (t(31) = 159.66, p < 0.001) and demonstrated a Cohen's d of 28.22. Conclusion: A four-week Halliwick aquatic training program was associated with significant improvements in dynamic balance among community-dwelling older adults with impaired dynamic balance. These findings suggest that Halliwick aquatic therapy may be a safe and effective intervention for improving postural control and supporting fall-prevention strategies in the older adult population. Further controlled trials are recommended to confirm these findings.