Falls are a major health concern amongst older adults with cancer, and are often related to decreased physical strength due to effects of cancer and its treatments. Ample evidence demonstrates the benefits of exercise programs incorporating strength and balance training on lower body strength, balance, and fall prevention older adults. However, gaps in research exist within the geriatric oncology context. The purpose of this study is to determine the feasibility and efficacy of a 3-month, remotely delivered exercise program regimen on lower body strength, balance, and falls in older adults with cancer. This observer-blinded, randomized controlled feasibility trial aims to recruit older cancer patients (aged ≥65). Participants in the intervention group will undertake the exercise program 3 times weekly for three months. Data collection will include sociodemographic survey, baseline, end-of-intervention (3-month) assessment, follow-up (6-month) assessment, chart review, and exit survey. Descriptive and inferential statistics will be used to analyze data, following the intention-to-treatment principle. Data generated from this research project will inform design of a subsequent, larger exercise intervention trial. This is an important step to establish the knowledge base regarding provision of exercise interventions as a fall prevention strategy to reduce falls and their negative outcomes in older patients in the community.
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30-second Chair Stand test
Timeframe: Baseline, 3 & 6 months - to measure change
Balance test
Timeframe: Baseline, 3 & 6 months - to measure change
Fall assessment
Timeframe: Baseline, 3 & 6 months - to measure change