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

Gray, Michelle

Committee Member

Fort, Inza L.

Second Committee Member

Ganio, Matthew S.

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.

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