Indian Journal of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy - An International Journal
  • Year: 2017
  • Volume: 11
  • Issue: 1

The Influence of Body Mass Index on Functional Mobility and Balance in Elderly Individuals

  • Author:
  • S Haripriya1, B S Anjana2, Soniya George2, Padmanabhan Suresh Babu Roshan1
  • Total Page Count: 5
  • Page Number: 6 to 10

1Assistant Professor, Laxmi Memorial College of Physiotherapy, Mangalore, India

2BPT Intern, Laxmi Memorial College of Physiotherapy, Mangalore, India

Online published on 28 December, 2016.

Abstract

Functional mobility and balance are major issues which affect the functional independence and quality of life of elderly people. Obesity can have an effect on various aspects of mobility and balance. The present study was aimed at finding of a relationship exists between Body Mass Index (BMI), functional mobility and balance.

22 men and 38 women aged above 60 years were divided into 4 groups, underweight, normal weight, overweight and obese based on the Asian classification of BMI. The subjects were assessed using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and their Body Mass Indices (BMI) were calculated. ANOVA was used to find if a difference in means of TUG and BBS scores existed among the different BMI groups.

There was no difference seen in functional mobility and balance among the different BMI groups.

There was no difference in functional mobility and balance among elderly people with different body mass indices. It is advisable that elderly individuals maintain optimal body weight for better function and quality of life.

Keywords

Elderly, Functional mobility, Balance, Body Mass Index