The Effects of Obesity on Fall Efficacy in Elderly People

Abstract

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to identify the effects of obesity on falls as a practical verification of the importance of obesity-targeting interventions as part of future fall prevention programs. [Subjects and Methods] The study involved 351 elderly people (172 men, 179 women) living in rural areas. The dependent variable, fall efficacy, was measured using the Falls Efficacy Scale, while the independent variables, body mass index (BMI) and visceral fat, were measured using the InBody 720. The Faces Pain Scale was used to measure pain. Mobility was measured using the Timed Up and Go Test, and balance ability was measured according to the duration subjects could stand on one foot with their eyes closed. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was performed for the final data analysis. [Results] Investigation of the correlations between the variables revealed a negative correlation between fall efficacy and the other variables. Ultimatley, investigation of the causality of fall efficacy revealed that the BMI, pain, and mobility were influential factors. In other words, fall efficacy tends to be lower when there are higher degrees of obesity, increased pain, and decreased mobility. [Conclusion] To improve the fall efficacy of elderly people living in rural areas, pain management and the maintenance of physical functionality are required. The present study confirms that the elderly need continuous obesity management to lead healthy lives.

Associação entre obesidade, risco de quedas e medo de cair em mulheres idosas

“…Corroborating the findings of the present study, Jeon et al 22 evidenced a relationship between BMI and fear of falling in a sample of 351 old Koreans; however, the risk of falls was not the aim of that study. Conversely, Mitchell et al 5 observed higher occurrence of falls in obese elderly, but the fear of falling did not differ among BMI strata.…”

Impact of shoe size in a sample of elderly individuals

“…20,21 In our study we found that BMI and sex are the variables that have an independent effect on the dimensions foot function and general foot condition. Thus, we conclude that increasing BMI worsens the function of the foot, the general foot condition, and the social function of the person, negatively affecting the quality of life of the elderly.…”

Fear of falling in older adults living at home: associated factors

“…Older adult women were more likely to fall than older adult men (19) . The fear of falling among older adult women was associated with reduced physical activity (19) ; obesity (20)(21) ; impairment of activities of daily living (ADLs) (19) ; social isolation (4) ; higher depressive symptoms (20,22) ; higher probability of future falls (23) . The fear of falling among older adult women is influenced by a number of factors peculiar to gender, such as a higher prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and musculoskeletal frailty (23) ; low bone density after menopause and greater and more rapid loss of muscle mass, due to the hormonal decrease (24) .…”