Balance Performance of Elderly in Amphur Muang, Khon Kaen province

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Balance impairment and fall are important and common problems in elderly. The improvement of balance ability is necessary to prevent or decrease the possible consequence of fall. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate balance performances of 215 well-functioning elderly, aged at least 60 years old from several communities in Amphur Muang Khon Kaen province.

Methods: The study was descriptive study design conducted in elderly, the subjects were divided into 2 aged groups which were less than 75 years and 75 years and over. Balance ability of subjects was assessed by using the Berg balance scale (BBS) and timed up and go test (TUGT).

Results: The results showed that, postural control which assessed by BBS and TUGT in elderly male subjects aged less than 75 years old were 53.72 ± 2.42 points and 10.28 ± 3.04 seconds respectively , BBS and TUGT in male subjects aged 75 years old and over were 53.15 ± 2.11 points and 11.00 ± 1.78 seconds respectively. BBS and TUGT in elderly female subjects aged less than 75 years old were 52.51 ± 2.34 points and 10.90 ± 2.06 seconds respectively and in elderly females aged less than 75 years old and over were 50.44 ± 3.14 points and 12.20 ± 2.82 seconds respectively.

Conclusion: Postural control ability has a tendency to decline in advancing age, particularly in females, aged 75 years old and over.  Therefore, the improvement of balance ability of elderly is crucial to delay balance deterioration and prevent fall which is an important and common problem in elderly.