The Influence of physical and cognitive functions on falls by elderly persons attending community day-care centers

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of physical and cognitive functions on falls by elderly persons attending community day-care centers. [Subjects] The subjects were 60 elderly persons attending community day-care centers. [Methods] Physical function was assessed using the timed up-and-go test (TUG), chair-stand test, and 5m walking speed. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini Mental State Examination, digit span, and Trail-Making Test part A (TMT-A). The fall risk score was also evaluated. [Results] Participants who had a history of falls had higher TUG and TMT-A scores, and a higher fall risk score. TMT-A was strongly associated with a history of falls. [Conclusion] The results suggest that TMT-A, known as a marker of execution and attention, is associated with a history of falls, and interventions for the execution and attention functions may be important for fall prevention for elderly adults who attend community day-care centers.