---

ASSOCIATION OF HEALTH RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE WITH PHYSICAL FUNCTION AND FEAR OF FALLING IN GERIATRIC POPULATION

Dr. Tamjeed Ghaffar, Irtasam Ahmad, Qainat Nazeer, Dr.Rabbyya Kausar, Uzair zafar aulakh, Mamoona Tasleem Afzal, Ahmad wassi

---

Download PDF

---

Abstract

Background:

Aging, primarily defined by chronological age, varies significantly due to genetics and lifestyle, resulting in diverse aging experiences. Psychological factors like fear of falling, diminished self-efficacy, and activity avoidance pose health risks among the elderly.

Objective:               

The goal of this investigation was to examine the connections between health-related quality of life, physical function, and fear of falling within the geriatric population.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional survey involved 865 geriatric participants aged 65 and older, both male and female, who had experienced a fall within the past six months and could walk upright with or without ambulatory aids. Exclusions were made for those with a history of fractures, neurological impairments, degenerative diseases, or low self-confidence. Data collection employed the Fall Efficacy Scale International (FESI) and SF-36 questionnaire. Analysis utilized SPSS version 26, exploring significant associations via multinomial logistic regression.

Results :

The study using the SF-36 questionnaire found associations: General Health significantly linked to age, BMI, and current health status (p<0.05); Limitations of Activity tied to the 65-70 age group and marital status (p<0.05). No significant demographic links appeared for Physical Health Problems. Emotional Health Problems associated with marital status (p=0.001). Social Activities linked with age and current health status. In Body Pain, significant associations with gender, age, and good health status (p<0.05) . Energy and Emotions correlated with age 71-89, BMI, marital status, and health.

Conclusions:

Ages 65-70, normal BMI, good health, and marriage correlate with higher health-related quality of life. Fear of falling relates significantly to better scores in general health, emotional well-being, social engagement, and vitality.

Key words:

 Fear of Falling, Geriatric Population, Physical health, Quality of Life