Investigation of The Relationship between Balance and Body Mass Index with Quality of Life and Risk of Fall in Elderly
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59994/ajamts.2025.2.40Keywords:
Elderly People, Balance, Body Mass Index, Quality of Life & Risk of FallAbstract
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between balance and body mass index (BMI) with quality of life (QOL) and risk of fall among elderly individuals. The study included 30 community-dwelling older adults aged 60–75 years, comprising 13 males and 17 females, who were cognitively intact and able to communicate effectively. Participants were assessed using Body Mass Index (BMI), the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), the Tinetti Balance and Gait Test, the Modified Fall Efficacy Scale, and the Nottingham Health Profile. Statistical analysis revealed a positive and statistically significant relationship between balance (BBS) and quality of life (P < 0.05), between BMI and quality of life (P < 0.05), and between balance (Tinetti Balance and Gait) and BMI (P < 0.05). However, no statistically significant relationship was found between BMI and risk of fall (P > 0.05) among the elderly participants. The findings suggest that balance and body mass index are important factors associated with quality of life in older adults. However, body mass index alone does not appear to be directly related to fall risk in this population. This study contributes to the existing literature by simultaneously examining balance, BMI, quality of life, and fall risk within a single elderly community sample. It also provides evidence highlighting that BMI may influence quality of life independently of its association with fall risk.
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