Motorized Platform and Autonomy Among the Frail and Pre-frail Older Adult

Highly diversified programs of physical activity in older people have shown their effectiveness in terms of improving functional capacities. Only one of these programs, to date, has used a motorized platform. The motorized platform allows the use of sensorimotor programs adapted to this population. Thus, for the user, a combination of motor and sensory capacities necessary to actively control different positions as well as reactions to maintain balance are stimulated, and are as important as psychomotor capabilities to maintain autonomy and the fight against losing independence.

Demonstration of the effectiveness of this type of equipment would propose a new modality of physical activity adapted to this population. Use of this new equipment could allow the possibility of standardizing this activity, whilst continuing to individualize physical activity programs.

Two phases for each group (Intervention/Control):

Phase 1 (day 0 - week 6): 2x1 hour sessions per week using the Hu360® (Intervention group) or an adapted physical activity program (Control group) under supervision of a therapist who will adapt the program according to the progress of the patient, following a standardized procedure (exercises: postural/balance training, strength training for the legs/trunk and coordination and endurance activities) Phase 2 (week 6 - month 6): Physical activity program at home for both groups, performed independently.

Blinded evaluations will be performed at 6 weeks and at 6 months for each group.

The investigators hypothesis is that the use of the motorized platform will allow superior physical performance compared to a traditional physical activity program.