The aim of the study was to examine the factors related to the risk of falls in elderly individuals
In the study, 110 individuals over 65 years of age were analysed. Demographic information and the number of falls in the last 1 year were recorded. The cognitive skills of the participants were assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCa) Scale, anterioposterior dynamic balance using the Functional Reach Test (FRT), lateral balance using the Tandem Stance Test (TST), balance and fall probability using the Berg Balance Test (BBT), functional mobility was assessed with the Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT), lower extremity endurance and functional muscle strength were assessed with the 1-Minute Sit-Stand Test (1-MST) and cervical proprioception was assessed with a stabiliser.
Participants had a mean age of 71.26±6.20 years and experienced 0.41±1.02 falls in the past year. TST duration: 25.95±7.93 seconds, MoCa: 18.65±4.90, FRT: 21.83±8.38 cm, BBT: 51.11±4.47, TUGT: 12.01±3.89 sec, 1MSTS: 18.61±8.23 repeat, cervical proprioception error: % 15.49±13.0. A statistically insignificant negative connection was seen between the number of falls and age (r=-0.081, p=0.399), height (r=-0.030, p=0.756), TST (r=0.144, p=0.134), cognitive level(r=-0.015, p=0.878), BBT (r=-0.079, p=0.414) and cervical proprioception(r=-0.135, p=0.160). Men reported more falls than women, with an odds ratio of 3.14 (95% confidence interval: 1.21-8.14). Gender and falls are significantly associated (p = 0.018), suggesting males may fall more.
This study offers important knowledge into the factors correlated with falls among the elderly. The findings reinforce the importance of gender as a key factor in falls, revealing the possible impact of body weight, balance, cervical proprioception and age on the probability of experiencing a fall.
The findings of this study highlight to physiotherapists the importance of conducting comprehensive research on the factors that contribute to falls in the elderly population.
fall
balance
