International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology · Jul 18, 2026
Effectiveness of Home-Based Staircase Cross-Training on Lower Extremity Strength Among Elderly Individuals
By Nanaware SG, Anandh S
Background: Aging is associated with a gradual decline in lower extremity muscle strength, balance, and functional mobility, which significantly increases the risk of falls and reduces the ability of elderly individuals to perform activities of daily living independently. Exercise interventions have been widely recommended to improve physical function in older adults. Home-based staircase cross-training is a simple, accessible, and cost-effective functional exercise program that utilizes household staircases to enhance lower limb strength, balance, and mobility. However, limited evidence is available regarding its effectiveness as a structured home-based rehabilitation program for elderly individuals. Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of home-based staircase cross-training on lower extremity strength among elderly individuals and to determine its effects on functional mobility and balance. Methods: An experimental pre-test and post-test study design was conducted among elderly individuals aged 60 years and above. A total of 71 participants who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were enrolled using a convenient sampling method. Participants underwent a structured home-based staircase cross-training program for 12 weeks, with three sessions per week. Lower extremity strength was assessed using the 30- Second Chair Stand Test, functional mobility using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test, and balance using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 26.0. Paired t-test and Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test were used for statistical analysis, with the level of significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Following the 12-week intervention, participants demonstrated significant improvements in lower extremity muscle strength, functional mobility, and balance. The 30Second Chair Stand Test scores increased significantly, Timed Up and Go Test completion time decreased significantly, and Berg Balance Scale scores improved after the intervention (p < 0.001). These findings indicate that home-based staircase cross-training effectively enhances physical function among elderly individuals. Conclusion: Home-based staircase cross-training is a safe, practical, and economical intervention for improving lower extremity muscle strength, functional mobility, and balance among elderly individuals. The use of household staircases as a functional training tool may help reduce fall risk, improve physical independence, and enhance the quality of life of older adults. Therefore, staircase cross-training can be recommended as an effective home-based rehabilitation strategy for healthy aging.