여성 노인의 낙상 두려움이 균형 능력 및 인지기능에 미치는 영향

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of fear of falling (FoF) on cognitive function and balance ability in elderly women. The subjects were 71 elderly women living in S city. The subjects were classified into the normal group (NG) (n=41, 74.1±5.0 yrs) and the FoF group (FG) (n=30, 76.2±4.3 yrs) using the Short Falls Efficacy Scale (SFES-I). Cognitive function was assessed using the Cognitive Impairment Screening Test (CIST) tool (Ministry of Health and Welfare, 2021). Balance ability was measured by one-leg balance as static balance, functional reach as dynamic balance, timed up & go as functional balance, and sit to stand as fall risk assessment. The results showed a significant difference in the total cognitive function score (NG: 26.7±1.9 vs. FG: 24.1±3.5) and the total fall fear score (NG: 7.5±0.9 vs. FG: 14.9±2.1) (P<.05). There was a significant difference in standing on one leg with eyes open (NG: 15.6±17.5 sec vs. FG: 8.3±10.1 sec) and functional reach (NG: 27.8±4.7 cm vs. FG: 24.2±6.2 cm). There was also a difference (P<.01) in sit to stand and timed up & go. In addition, lower cognitive function was associated with a 29% increased likelihood of fall fear. The results suggest that FoF is an important predictor of cognitive function in older adults and is significantly associated with balance ability.