What are the Main Physical Functioning Factors Associated With Falls Among Older People With Different Perceived Fall Risk?

This study aimed to identify the prevalence of falls and physical functioning factors associated with falling among community‐dwelling older adults with low and high perceived fall risk.
MethodsWe conducted a cross‐sectional population based study with 773 community‐dwelling elders. Perceived fall risk was investigated using Falls Efficacy Scale International. We considered fallers those who reported at least one fall in the previous 12 months. Physical functioning measures used were grip strength, usual gait speed, sit‐to‐stand test, five step test, timed up and go test, one‐legged stance test, anterior and lateral functional reach test.
ResultsAt least one fall was reported by 103 (30%) participants with low perceived fall risk and by 196 (46%) participants with high perceived fall risk. The odds of falling were lower among those with greater grip strength and with a greater stance time in one‐legged test, and the odds of falling among elders with high perceived fall risk were higher among those who took more time in performing the five step test.
DiscussionWe believe that our results highlight the need of not neglecting the risk of falls among active older adults with low perceived fall risk, particularly in those elders that show reduced stability in a small base of support and a lower leg strength. In addition, we suggest that elders with high perceived fall risk should be assessed using anticipatory postural adjustment tests. Particularly, our results ma...

Source: Physiotherapy Research International - March 1, 2016 Category: Physiotherapy Authors: Mirian N. Moreira, Tereza L. Bilton, Rosangela C. Dias, Eduardo Ferriolli, Monica R. Perracini Tags: Research Article Source Type: research