Muscle Strength and Fatness on Falls and Fear of Falling Among Older Adults

Previous studies in older adults have demonstrated inconsistent associations between muscle strength, body fatness, and falls. This study aims to analyze the combined and independent associations of muscle strength and body fatness on the incidence of falls, and fear of falling among older adults.

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 253 older adults (150 females) aged 65 years and over. Sociodemographic characteristics, muscle strength (handgrip test), body composition, the number of falls per year, and fear of falling (Falls Efficacy Scale-International) were ascertained.

Linear regression models suggest muscle strength is inversely associated with falls (unstandardized β = -0.361; p < .001) and fear of falling (unstandardized β = -5.929; p < .001) after adjustments for age, sex, socioeconomic status, and body fatness. Additionally, analysis of covariance showed that participants categorized with high muscle strength, independently of body fatness status (low and high), had on average the lowest numbers of falls, F(3, 246) = 5.56; p = .001 and fear of falling, F(3, 246) = 6.75; p < .001, after adjustments.

Low muscle strength is associated with higher Falls Efficacy Scale-International score and fall episodes. Individuals with low levels of muscle strength, regardless of their body fatness status, exhibited the least favorable Falls Efficacy Scale-International scores and the highest average of falls. Significance/Implications: Our findings emphasize the importance of preserving muscle strength to mitigate the incidence of falls in older adults. Additionally, handgrip strength can be a simple and effective measure to identify low muscle strength and assess the risk of falls during routine clinical practice.