Evidence

 

Six separate trials have helped to inform the development of the FAME Program.

Major findings are documented below:

Categories & Improvements from FAME

Balance Function

2-5 points increase on the Berg Balance scale

Balance Reflexes

25 ms faster

Falls

1/3 less falls over 12 months

Walking Distance

25% further (6 minute Walk Test)

Balance Confidence

Increased 6-10 points (Activities Specific Balance Confidence Scale)

Cardiovascular Fitness

10% increase in maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max)

Muscle Strength

20-25% stronger

Hip Bone Density

Maintenance versus 3% bone loss in controls (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry [DXA]; improved bone structure (peripheral quantitative computed tomography, commonly abbreviated [PQCT])

Memory and Thinking

Improvement in aspects of executive functioning including working memory, selective attention, and attentional conflict

 

FAME clinical trial references

  1. Bird ML, William M, Chu F, Acerra N, Wright A, Bagnell E, Hayley K, Yao J, Eng JJ. Building a Bridge to the Community – An integrated knowledge translation approach to improve participation in community based exercise for people after stroke. Phys Ther. 2019;99:286-296.  Abstract
  2. Mayo N, Anderson S, Barclay R, Cameron J, Desrosiers J, Eng JJ, Huijbregts M, Mackay-Lyons M, Richards CL, Salbach NM, Scott SC, Teasell R, Bayley M. Getting on with the rest of your life after stroke: Evaluation of a complex intervention aimed at enhanced life participation post-stroke. Clin Rehabil. 2015;29:1198-211.  Abstract
  3. Liu-Ambrose T, Eng JJ. Exercise training and recreational activities to promote executive functions in chronic stroke: A proof- of-concept study. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2015;24:130-7. Full paper
  4. Eng JJ. Fitness and Mobility Exercise Program for Stroke. Top Geriatri Rehabil. 2010;26:310-323.  Full paper
  5. Pang MYC, Eng JJ. Determinants of improvement in walking capacity among individuals with chronic stroke following a multi-dimensional exercise program. J Rehabil Med. 2008;40:284-90. Full paper
  6. Rand D, Eng JJ, Liu-Ambrose T, Tawashy AE. Feasibility of a 6-month exercise and recreation program to improve executive functioning and memory in individuals with chronic stroke. Neurorehabil Neural Repair. 2010;24:722-9. Full paper
  7. Pang MY, Ashe MC, Eng JJ, McKay HA, Dawson AS. A 19-week exercise program for people with chronic stroke enhances bone geometry at the tibia: a peripheral quantitative computed tomography study. Osteoporosis Int. 2006;17:1615-25. Full paper
  8. Marigold DS, Eng JJ, Dawson AS, Inglis JT, Harris JE, Gylfadóttir S. Exercise leads to faster postural reflexes, improved balance and mobility, and reduced falls in older persons with chronic stroke. J Am Geriatri Soc. 2005;53:416-423. Full paper
  9. Pang MYC, Eng JJ, Dawson AS, McKay HA, Harris JE. A community-based Fitness and Mobility Exercise (FAME) program for older adults with chronic stroke: A randomized controlled trial. J Am Geriat Soc. 2005;53:1667-1674.  Full paper
  10. Eng JJ, Chu KS, Kim CM, Dawson AS, Carswell A, Hepburn KE. A community-based group exercise program for persons with chronic stroke. Med Scc Sports Exerc. 2003;35:1271-1278. Full paper