The Association between Fear of Falling and Physical Activity in Older Women

抄録

[Purpose] Fear of falling is thought to lead to restricted activities. Although fear of falling may reduce physical activity, the association between fear of falling and physical activity measured objectively has yet to be investigated. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between fear of falling and objective physical activity among older women. [Subjects and Methods] Subjects were 262 older women (aged 65–95 years) who were classified into fear of falling and no fear of falling groups. Demographic data and physical performance were measured. Physical activity was evaluated using a pedometer. [Results] Prevalence of fear of falling was 62.2% (n=163) and that of no fear of falling was 37.8% (n=99). The fear of falling group had a higher prevalence of fall history, higher medication use, lower physical performance and lower physical activity. In regression analysis, fear of falling was found to be independently correlated with physical activity. [Conclusion] Our results suggest that fear of falling is significantly associated with physical activity when measured objectively among older women. To enhance physical activity, a program focused on not only physical function but also psychological factors such as fear of falling should be developed.