Mediating Role of Fall-related Efficacy in a Fall Prevention Program

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Science
• Psychology

Background:

• Fear of falling (FOF) significantly impacts functional mobility (FM) in older adults.
• Fall-related efficacy (FE) is a crucial factor in maintaining independence and preventing falls.
• The Perceived Ability to Prevent and Manage Fall Risks (PAPMFR) scale is a new tool to assess FE.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the multidimensionality of the PAPMFR scale.
• To assess the mediating role of FE (measured by PAPMFR) between FOF and FM.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of the A Matter of Balance Volunteer Lay Leader Model (AMOB/VLL) program.

Main Methods:

• Secondary data analysis of 552 participants in the AMOB/VLL fall prevention program.
• Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to validate the PAPMFR scale.
• Structural equation modeling to test mediation pathways.

Main Results:

• The PAPMFR scale demonstrated three dimensions: steadiness/balance, gait, and fall management.
• FE, as measured by PAPMFR, significantly mediated the relationship between FOF and FM.
• The AMOB/VLL program showed potential in enhancing FE.

Conclusions:

• The PAPMFR scale is a valid measure of fall-related efficacy with distinct dimensions.
• Enhancing confidence in preventing and managing falls can improve functional mobility, complementing exercise interventions.
• The AMOB/VLL program may enhance FE, contributing to better FM in older adults.