Author:

• Sónia Santos - Santos, Sónia - Universidade de Aveiro - <scas@ua.pt>

Co-author(s):

• Daniela Figueiredo - Figueiredo, Daniela - Universidade de Aveiro Escola Superior de Saude de Aveiro - <daniela.figueiredo@ua.pt>

Thematic Area:

Saúde do Idoso

Abstract:

Fear of falling is a risk factor of falls. It has also been associated with functional decline, decreased of quality of life and increased social isolation among older adults. This study analyzed predictors of the fear of falling in elderly Portuguese that live in the community. A cross-sectional study with a convenience sample of 98 participants (57.1% women; mean age 74.07 ± 8.74 years) was carried out. Data were collected with a protocol which includes a questionnaire for sociodemographic and health information, the Activity Specific Balance Confidence Scale, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Lubben Social Network Scale-6, the Timed Up and Go, and Five Times Sit to Stand Test. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
The results showed that female gender (p=0.01), the perception of good physical health (p=0.01) and moderate (p=0.02) and the symptoms of depression (p≈0.00) are predictors of fear of falling. Controlling these predictors is a fundamental aspect for promoting the independence of older people minimizing the consequences that are associated with the fear of falling.

Keywords:

Old peopleFear of FallingPredictorCommunity

Content:

Access Issue in Scielo

Other languages: