The relationships between fear of falling and instrumental activities of daily living and health-related quality of life of community-dwelling elderly female orthopedic outpatients

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to clarify whether fear of falling is associated with instrumental activities of daily living or health-related quality of life in community-dwelling elderly female orthopedic outpatients. [Participants and Methods] The subjects of this study were 27 elderly females. Their grip strength was measured, and FES, FAI, GDS and SF-36 were assessed by a questionnaire. [Results] FES had significant correlations with grip strength, FAI, GDS and SF-36. [Conclusion] To decrease fear of falling, in addition to maintaining or increasing physical function, approaches for psychological health such as depression, and vitality and subjective view of health will also be necessary.