Results of multivariable meta-regression exploring the impact of trial-level characteristics on the effect of exercise on falls in general community-dwelling older populations
| Variables included in multivariable meta-regression (number of trials with this characteristic) | Effect on effect size, meta-regression coefficient (95% CI), p value | Effect on falls, IRR (95% CI), p value |
|---|---|---|
| Inclusion of high challenge balance training* (31) | 0.87 (0.76 to 1.00), 0.04 | 0.79 (0.71 to 0.88), <0.001 |
| 3+ hours per week of intervention (20) | 0.78 (0.66 to 0.92), 0.004 | 0.70 (0.60 to 0.83), <0.001 |
| Neither high challenge balance training or 3+ hours per week of intervention | 0.90 (0.82 to 0.99), 0.03 | |
| High challenge balance training and 3+ hours per week of intervention | 0.61 (0.53 to 0.72), <0.001 |
*All three criteria: movement of the centre of mass, narrowing of the base of support and minimising upper limb support.
Note: 72% heterogeneity explained by both variables; statistically significant comparisons shown in italics.