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Falls-efficacy as a multiple dimension construct: the role of post-traumatic symptoms
Natalia Adamczewska1, Samuel R Nyman2
1Department of Psychology, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK.
Aging & Mental Health
|April 27, 2021
Summary
Falls efficacy in older adults is complex, influenced by psychological factors like fear and dysphoria. Dysphoria is central to maladaptive falls efficacy, while fear of falls can be protective.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Gerontology
- Public Health
Background:
- Falls are a significant concern for older adults, leading to reduced quality of life.
- Falls efficacy (FE) is a key psychological construct influencing fall prevention.
- Existing models of FE often overlook the complex interplay with psychological distress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a theoretical understanding of the psychological response to falls in older adults.
- To test a model of multidimensional falls efficacy (FE) incorporating posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) components.
- To investigate the direct associations between PTSD-related fear and dysphoria with FE.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study design.
- Convenience sample of 119 older adults hospitalized in Poland due to fall-related injuries.
- Utilized surveys to assess fear of falls, FE, and PTSD.
Main Results:
- All three hypothesized pathways related to FE were supported, explaining 61% of the variance in falls efficacy.
- Significant relationships were found between FE and dysphoria (r=.447, p=.006), FE and fear (r=.261, p=.009), and FE and fear of falls (FoF) (r=-.286, p=.006).
- Dysphoria was identified as central to fall-related constructs and their maladaptivity.
Conclusions:
- Falls efficacy is not a unidimensional concept and is influenced by various psychological factors.
- Dysphoria plays a central role in the maladaptivity of FE and FoF.
- Fear of falls (FoF) may be adaptive and protective, contrary to common belief, and is distinct from FE.
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