Balance is commonly used to describe stability and steadiness when older adults are standing or sitting. As well, functional status refers to a person's ability to perform tasks that are required for living as eating, bathing and dressing. Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of a multimodal exercise program on balance and functional ability of rural elderly. Setting: The study was conducted at Kafar El Shiekh Mosa Amran, Zagazig District, Sharkia Governorat. Egypt. Sample: A purposive sample of 60 older adults who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Tools: three tools were used; Tool I was a structured interview questionnaire to assess elderly demographic characteristics and medical history, tool II was the Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA B scale) and tool III was The Lawton instrumental activities of daily livings (IADLs) scale. Results: The study revealed that functional ability scores increased from 6.7±.70, 3.6±.51 to 7.7±.63 and 4.3±.72 among studied older women and studied older men respectively. As well, the mean score of balance increased from 8.57±3.0 to 13.85 ± 2.5 post program. These difference were statistically significant (P=000) which indicates statistically significant improvement in older adults functional ability and balance post the program. Conclusion: The multimodal Exercise program is effective in increasing the elderly’s functional ability and balance. Recommendations: The multimodal Exercise program can be used as an effective non pharmacological intervention to improve older adult’s functional ability and balance.

Multimodal Exercise Program, Balance, Functional Ability, Rural Elderly