Perceived Balance Predicts Falls in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Hanne Dolan, Janet Pohl, Keenan Pituch, David Coon
Primary Institution: Arizona State University
Hypothesis
Does perceived balance predict self-reported falls among community-dwelling older adults?
Conclusion
Perceived balance problems are a significant predictor of falls in older adults, even when controlling for other known risk factors.
Supporting Evidence
- 23.4% of the sample reported a fall in 2016.
- Perceived balance was found to be a significant predictor of falls.
- Females were more likely to report falls compared to males.
- Non-Hispanic White participants were more likely to report falling than non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic participants.
Takeaway
If older people think they have balance problems, they are more likely to fall.
Methodology
A longitudinal secondary analysis using data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reporting of falls and balance perceptions.
Limitations
The study relies on self-reported data, which may not capture all falls.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily non-Hispanic White, with a mix of non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic individuals.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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