Correlation of body mass index with fear of fall and balance in geriatric population of Ahmedabad city-an observational study

Geriatric population is defined as population aged 65 years and above. Due to aging processes, diseases and inactivity, balance is often impaired in elderly people. Inactivity may lead to overweight and obese in elderly people. Fear of falling is defined as an exaggerated concern about falling or the belief that cannot prevent a fall. Falling is not only results in physical injury but also limits the physical activity of elderly people.

To find a correlation of Body Mass Index (BMI) with fear of fall and balance in Geriatric Population.

Observational study was conducted in Ahmedabad city. Individuals aged 65 years and above both male (39) and female (34). Total 73 samples were chosen by the method of convenient sampling. Fear of fall was calculated using Short Fall Efficacy Scale-International, Balance by using Time Up and Go test and BMI (Asian criteria) by using the anthropometric measurements. Tools used were a weighing machine, measure tape, stopwatch, chair and cane (if required). The data was correlated by using Spearman's correlation coefficient.

A weak positive correlation between BMI and Balance (r=0.37, p=0.001) and very weak positive correlation between body mass index and fear of fall (r=0.07, p>0.05) was found in Geriatric population.

This study concluded that statistically significant correlation between body mass index and balance in Geriatric population. And correlation between body mass index and fear of fall which is statistically not significant in Geriatric population.