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Balance performance and step width in noninstitutionalized, elderly, female fallers and nonfallers
D K Heitmann1, M R Gossman, S A Shaddeau
1Department of Physical Therapy, Penrose Community Hospital, Colorado Springs, CO 80917.
Physical Therapy
|November 1, 1989
Summary
Elderly women who fall have poorer static balance performance, specifically on the sharpened Romberg test with eyes open. Balance and step width are related, suggesting clinical applicability for fall risk assessment.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Biomechanics
- Kinesiology
Background:
- Falls are a significant concern for elderly individuals, impacting mobility and independence.
- Static balance and gait parameters like step width are potential indicators of fall risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare age, static balance, and step-width variables between elderly women with and without a fall history.
- To investigate the relationship between static balance performance and step-width characteristics.
Main Methods:
- 110 noninstitutionalized women (60-89 years) participated.
- Static balance assessed using sharpened Romberg and one-legged stance tests (eyes open/closed).
- Step width measured via ink prints during walking; mean and variability analyzed.
Main Results:
- Fallers demonstrated significantly poorer performance on the sharpened Romberg test (eyes open) compared to non-fallers.
- No significant differences found in age, step width variability, or other balance tests between groups.
- A statistically significant negative relationship was observed between balance performance and step width (mean and variability).
Conclusions:
- Static balance, particularly under challenging conditions like the sharpened Romberg test with eyes open, differentiates fallers from non-fallers in elderly women.
- The findings support the clinical applicability of measuring balance and step width for fall risk assessment.
- Established data provide a benchmark for comparing similar patient populations.