Multi-Directional Reach Test between Elderly Fallers and Non-fallers
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Abstract
Background: Falling is a common and major problem found in the elderly. The clinical balance tests are a crucial tool for assessing the risk of falls. However, the limits of stability in all directions have not been available for elderly fallers.
Objective: The objective of this study was to compare clinical balance and mobility between elderly fallers and non-fallers.
Methods: Sixty women aged 60 to 75 years participated in this study. Subjects were divided into 2 equal groups according to the history of fall (faller and non-faller group). The clinical balance and mobility tests included the multidirectional reach test (MDRT), step test, and Timed Up and Go test (TUG). MDRT were tested in 4 directions including forward (FR), backward (BR), leftward (LR), and rightward (RR). Step test was performed by instructing subjects to step on and off the bench for 15 second. TUG was the time in which the subjects took to stand up from a standard armchair, walk 3 meters (about 10 feet), turn around, walk back to the chair, and sit down.
Results: The faller group showed significantly lower MDRT scores in all directions (p£0.01), less number of step test in both sides (p<0.01), and slower TUG than the non-faller group (p<0.01).
Conclusion: Elderly persons with a history of falls had less ability in the MDRT test, Step test, and TUG test than non-faller elderly. These assessments can be used to screen the risk of falling in the elderly in order to reduce falls in the elderly.
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References
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