Evaluation of body composition balance and fall in elderly individuals

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of body composition on balance, fall and lower extremity muscle strength in elderly individuals. 92 individuals (64 female, 28 male) aged between 65-85 years were included in the study. Descriptive and clinical characteristics of the individuals were recorded. Cognitive functions of individuals were evaluated with the Standardized Mini-Mental State Test, and physical activity level was evaluated with the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE). Body mass index (BMI), waist-hip circumference ratio and leg (calf) circumference were measured to determine body composition. Berg Balance Scale (BDI), Timed Up and Go Test, and Tinetti Fall Activity Scale were used to assess balance and falling. A negative and weak correlation was found between BMI and BDI Score (-0.269, p<0.01). A weak positive correlation was found between waist-hip circumference ratio and dominant knee extension strength (r=0.244, p<0.05) and nondominant knee extension strength (r=0.333, p<0.01). A significant correlation was found between nondominant leg circumference measurement and dominant knee extension strength (r=0.207, p<0.05), dominant foot dorsiflexion strength (0.246, p<0.05) and nondominant foot plantar flexion strength (0.208, p<0.05) and dominant leg circumference measurement and dominant dorsiflexion strength (r=0.258, p<0.05). No correlation was found between other body composition data and balance, fall and strength (p>0.05). When individuals were examined by dividing into BMI groups; BDI score and right knee extension strength of the BMI (30.0-39.9) group were found to be lower than the other two groups (p<0.05). In conclusion, there was no correlation between body composition and balance, fall and muscle strength of elderly individuals. On the other hand, it was observed that balance and dominant leg knee extension strength were negatively affected in individuals with high BMI. Balance skills and falling should be evaluated in detail in individuals with higher BMI values. Keywords: Body mass index, Elderly, Postural balance, Fall, Lower extremity Muscle Strength.