A Comparison of Physical Parameters, Functional Performance, and Life Quality in Home-residing and Nursing Home-residing Older Adults with No History of Falls

Saltan A., Ankaralı H.

Anadolu Kliniği Tıp Bilimleri Dergisi, vol.24, no.3, pp.170-176, 2019 (Refereed Journals of Other Institutions)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 24 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2019
  • Doi Number: 10.21673/anadoluklin.454806
  • Title of Journal : Anadolu Kliniği Tıp Bilimleri Dergisi
  • Page Numbers: pp.170-176

Abstract

Aim: In this study, we aimed to compare physical parameters, functional performance, and life quality scores in home-residing (HR) and nursing home-residing (NHR) older adults with no history of falls and evaluate the possible correlations between these factors. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study assessed 44 HR and 59 NHR participants by using the Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go Test, Mini Mental State Examination, 30-Second Chair Stand Test, and Nottingham Health Profile (NHP). Results: No statistically significant difference was found between the NHR and HR participants in terms of lower extremity muscle strength, balance, life quality, functional performance, and mental status (p>0.05). Correlation analysis only showed a significant negative relationship between functional performance and lower extremity muscle strength (r=-0.401, p=0.003) and balance (r=-0.519, p=0.0001) in the NHR group. Discussion and Conclusion: Fall risk assessments for HR and NHR elderly should consider various factors including lower extremity muscle strength, functional performance, mental status, and life quality. This study presenting functional performance and life quality data as well as physical parameter measurements is preliminary to further studies from a similarly holistic perspective.