Date of Graduation
8-2014
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science in Kinesiology (MS)
Degree Level
Graduate
Department
Health, Human Performance and Recreation
Advisor/Mentor
Michelle Gray
Committee Member
Inza Fort
Second Committee Member
Matthew Ganio
Keywords
Balance, Falls, Older Adults, Power
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to observe the differences between power and balance in older adults over the age of 65 with and without falls. A total of 62 community dwelling older adults between the ages of 65 and 92 participated in the study. Two groups consisted of 25 fallers and 37 non-fallers. No statistical differences were found between groups on age, height, weight, or BMI. Testing included the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) to test balance, the Tendo Weightlifting Analyzer (TWA) during a sit-to-stand to test lower body power, and the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) to assess physical activity. Results demonstrate the fallers had significantly lower balance (50.4 ± 6.2; p = .02) and average power (325.5 ± 114.3 watts; p = .01) when compared to the non-fallers (53.5 ± 3.1; p = .02, 420.6 ± 154.9 watts; p = .01). Physical activity was significantly correlated to balance (r = .33; p = .01). Lastly, power and balance were found to be significantly correlated (r = .43; p = .001). Overall, this study shows fallers have significantly lower power and balance compared to age matched non-fallers. The study also demonstrates balance and power, when measuring power in a way that is associated with activities of daily living, are strongly correlated.
Citation
Gray, S. M. (2014). Balance and Power in Older Adults With and Without a History of Falls. Graduate Theses and Dissertations Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/etd/2165