Accumulation of Sensory Difficulties Predicts Fear of Falling in Older Women. (August 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Viljanen, Anne; Kulmala, Jenni; Rantakokko, Merja; Koskenvuo, Markku; Kaprio, Jaakko; Rantanen, Taina
• Is Part Of: Journal of aging and health. Volume 25:Number 5(2013)
• Page Start: 776
• Page End: 791
• Publication Date: 2013-08
• Subjects: aging -- fear of falling -- hearing -- postural balance -- vision; Older people -- Health and hygiene -- Periodicals; Geriatrics -- Periodicals; 618.97
• DOI: 10.1177/0898264313494412
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0898-2643

Abstract

Objectives: To explore whether the accumulation of sensory difficulties predicts fear of falling (FOF), and whether the traits correlate with each other regardless of familial factors.Methods: Self-reported hearing, vision and balance difficulties, and FOF were assessed using structured questionnaires at the baseline and after a 3-year follow-up in 63- to 76-year-old women ( n = 434).Results: Among the women without FOF at baseline ( n = 245), 41% reported FOF at follow-up. Increasing numbers of sensory difficulties at baseline predicted higher incidence of FOF. The relationship between accumulated sensory difficulties and FOF was not mediated by familial factors.Discussion: The accumulation of multiple sensory difficulties may hinder older people from receiving compensatory information about body position and environment, thus jeopardizing a person's confidence in maintaining a balanced position. Regular screening of sensory functions followed by appropriate actions may prevent the development of FOF, and thus contribute to prevention of falls and promotion of healthy aging.