Stumbles, Gait, and Cognition: Risk Factors Associated with Falls in Older Adults with Subjective Memory Complaints

Abstract

Falls are a public health problem, impacting quality of life, independence, and health costs. Subjective memory complaints (SMCs) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) increase with age and may coexist. The risk of falls coinciding with SMCs is less understood. This study explored the risk factors associated with falls in adults with SMCs or MCI. A case–control study in adults over 50 was conducted. All participants underwent a neuropsychological assessment and a Timed Up and Go (TUG) test for gait analysis. Logistic regression calculated OR and p values, adjusting for demographic, clinical, cognitive, and gait variables. There was a total of 64 patients (47.06%) and 72 controls (52.94%). Fallers were older (70.76 ± 7.31) and had hypertension (29.63%), a history of stumbling (13.97%), slow TUG test performance (19.12%), and an asymmetric arm swing (19.85%). Fallers had lower verbal fluency (p = 0.043) and impairment on the Rey–Osterrieth figure copy (p = 0.047). Highest risk factors included female sex (OR 3.55, p = 0.006), older age (OR= 1.08, p = 0.006), hypertension (OR 3.33, p = 0.005), and stumbles (OR 5.65, p = 0.002). This study reconsiders clinical fall risk assessments in older adults with SMCs. Visuo-constructional abilities and executive dysfunction should be followed over time. Female sex, hypertension, and stumbles are risk factors. Integrated cognitive and motor assessments are crucial for detecting and proposing interventions for fall prevention in this population.