Investigation of Factors Resulting in Low Scores in the Life Space Assessment

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors resulting in low scores in the life space assessment (LSA). [Subjects] The subjects were 30 elderly persons receiving secondary care prevention. [Methods] The subjects were divided into two groups: a LSA high-scoring group, and a LSA low-scoring group. Each of the evaluation values were examined for significant differences using Student’s t-test. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the factors resulting in low scores in the LSA. [Results] Significant differences were observed between the LSA high-scoring group and the low-scoring group in 4 evaluation items. Logistic regression analysis showed the modified falls efficacy Scale (MFES) score was significantly associated with low scores in the LSA. The MFES score showed the relevance of knee extension strength, TUG, the coefficient of variation of stride time, and local stability of trunk acceleration (vertical direction). [Conclusion] Falls self-efficacy showed the relevance of knee extension strength, ability to move, and instability during walking, suggesting that falls self-efficacy was a factor of low scores in the LSA.