The effect of fear of falling on the balance and dual task performance in elderly

The aim of this study, is to investigate the effect of fear of falling on balance and dual task performance in elderly individuals. The sixty people who remain in the nursing home were included in this study. Falls Efficiency Scale was used to fear of falling. Elderly people were divided into two groups with (n = 30) and without (n = 30) fear of falling. In both groups; the balance was assessed using Berg Balance Scale, Tinetti Balance and Walking Test, One Leg Stance Test, Romberg Test, Functional Reach Test, mCTSIB. The dual task performance of individuals was assessed using the TUG. Physical activities and the quality of life were assessed using PASE and EQ-5D, respectively. The group with fear of falling was found significantly lower balance, physical activity, quality of life scores than the group without fear of falling (p<0,05). The group with fear of falling was found to be higher than the group with no fear of falling, motor and dual task completion times (p <0,05). As a result of this study; decline in physical activity and deterioration in balance, dual-task performance and life quality were detected in elderly individuals with fear of falling. In addition, it was found that the individuals who have falling history, had worse physical activity, walking and balance performances and life quality. Further studies may be undertaken to investigate the effect of fear of falling on balance and dual-task relative rehabilitation. Keywords: Balance, Dual Task, Elderly, Fall, Fear of Falling.