Investigation of the relationship between fall frequency and functional capacity, balance, quality of life in elderly stroke patients

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between fall frequency and functional capacity, balance, quality of life in elderly stroke patients. Method: This study was carried out on 68 stroke patients between January 2015- September 2015. The patients were divided into two groups, over (Group 1) and under (Group 2) 65 years of age, and comparisons were made between groups in terms of assessment outcomes. Demographic characteristics of patients, fall frequency and fear of fall were questioned. Functional capacity was assessed with Fugl Meyer Sensory Test, 6 Minute Walk test (6MWT), The Stroke Rehabilitation Assessment of Movement (STREAM) Test and Functional Independence Measurement (FIM); balance with Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) and Trunk Impairmen Scale (TIS) ; quality of life was assessed with Stroke Impact Scale (SIS). Results: The mean age of Group 1 was 74,21±7,43 year, 54,25±9,40 year in Group 2. Functional capacity and balance parameters in Group 1 were significantly lower and fear of fall was significantly higher than Group 2 (p<0.05). While, there was a significant weak negative correlation between age and functional capacity, there was a a significant weak positive correlation between age and TUG in all patients. Conclusion: Geriatric patients had worse functional capacity and balance scores so their fear of fall was found high and they were less independent in daily life. We think that exercises which increase balance, motor function and prevent falls in stroke rehabilitation may increase independence of daily life and life quality. Key words: Stroke, Fall, Age.