Comparative Effects of Balance and Inspiratory Muscle Training in Older Adults

This study aims to investigate and compare the effects of Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT), balance training, and a combination of both on respiratory muscle strength and balance in older adults. Aging is often associated with a decline in skeletal and respiratory muscle strength, which can increase the risk of falls and impact overall functionality. Participants aged 60 and over will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: Respiratory Muscle Training group (30 breaths, twice daily), Balance Training group (45-50 minute sessions, 3 days a week), Combined Training group (both IMT and balance exercises). The intervention will last for 8-weeks. Researchers will evaluate respiratory muscle strength, balance, core endurance, and functional capacity before and after the 8-week program to determine which approach is most effective in improving these parameters in the geriatric population.

Inclusion Criteria: * Aged 60 years or older. * Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score of 22 or higher. * Ability to walk 10 meters independently without human assistance. * Ability to read and write. * Volunteering to participate and providing written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Current use of sedative or hypnotic medications. * Presence of a diagnosed neurological disorder (e.g., history of stroke, Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis, dementia, or clinical vertigo) that is currently under treatment. * Presence of clinically significant cardiovascular or pulmonary complications (e.g., COPD, active lung disease, or uncontrolled hypertension). * Severe postural abnormalities that may interfere with the study (e.g., advanced scoliosis or kyphosis). * Acute or chronic orthopedic conditions preventing participation in a balance exercise program (e.g., lower extremity fractures or severe joint instability). * High risk of sarcopenia, defined as a SARC-F score of 4 or higher. * Significant communication or cognitive barriers that prevent following the exercise instructions.