Abstract

CARVALHO, Joana; PINTO, Joana  and  MOTA, Jorge. Physical activity, balance and fear of falling. A study with institutionalized older people . Rev. Port. Cien. Desp. [online]. 2007, vol.7, n.2, pp.225-231. ISSN 1645-0523.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between fear of falling, balance and physical activity in institutionalized older adults. Fifty six subjects aged 65 or older living in nursing homes participated in this study. Balance, fear of falling and the occurrence of falls during the last 12 months were assessed as risk factors for falls. The results showed: (i) no significant differences in balance according to gender; (ii) men reported less fear of falling than women; (iii) active elderly subjects showed significantly higher values of balance and less fear of falling compared to non-participants peers; (iv) a positive association was observed between fear of falling and balance, between fear of falling and physical activity and between balance and physical activity. We concluded that gender did not influence balance but negatively affects fear of falling. Participation in physical activity programs seems to be associated and to have positive effects on balance and fear of falling.

Keywords : aging; falls; balance; fear of falling; physical activity.

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