Correlation of the Korean Version of Falls Efficacy Scale-International With Quantitative Balance and Gait Parameters Through Exercise Program in Elderly Men

Abstract

Objective: To determine correlation of the Korean version of Falls Efficacy Scale-International (KFES-I) with other gait and balance parameters through exercise program in older men.

Methods: Between July 2015 and April 2018, 50 men of 103 participants in an exercise program for preventing falls who aged over 60 years, completed the evaluation before and after the program, had fear of falling (FOF), and could walk independently as an outpatient were enrolled retrospectively. The program comprised lower extremities and core muscle strengthening exercises following stretching exercises twice a week for 8 weeks. FOF using the KFES-I, Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Modified Barthel Index (MBI), stair up and gait categories in MBI (MBI-gait), and Timed Up and Go test (TUG) were evaluated. Quantitative gait and balance parameters were measured by gait analysis, posturography, and isokinetic dynamometer. They were compared before and after the program. Moreover, correlations of KFES-I with other parameters were examined.

Results: Fifty participants were enrolled. After the program, significant improvements were noted in right stride length (p=0.013) in gait analysis, MBI (p=0.012), BBS (p<0.000), TUG test (p<0.000), and KFES-I (p<0.000) scores. KFES-I was significantly correlated with MBI (r=-0.35, p=0.013), and MBI-gait (r=-0.341, p=0.015).

Conclusion: Risk of falls could be significantly improved through exercise. KFES-I had significant correlations with MBI-gait parameters. Participants showed increases in gait and balancing ability on quantitative measurements through exercises. Therefore, regular stretching, strengthening, and balancing exercises may help prevent falls in older people.

Keywords: Elderly; Exercise; Falls; Fear; Koreans.