Risk of Falls among Obese Elderly Females

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Geriatrics & Gerontology department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.+

2 Ain Shams Ageing Research Center.

3 Geriatrics & Gerontology department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.

Abstract

Abstract
Background: It has been suggested that obesity increases fall risk, based on diminished static balance and increased fall-related injury risk.
Aim: To determine whether overweight and obese individuals have higher fall risk than individuals of average weight.
Methods: A case control study conducted on140 elderly females participants aged 60 years and above. They were divided into 2 groups (Obese and Non obese) according to their Body Mass Index (BMI). A comprehensive geriatric assessment was done and risk of falls was assessed by Fall Risk Assessment Tool and timed up and go test.
Results: Risk of falls assessed by both tools was higher among obese female elderly female compared to non-obese. Using timed up and go test 50% of obese subjects have positive risk of fall while only 20%of non-obese group at risk of fall.
Conclusions: It was concluded that obese elderly females are at higher risk of falling than non-obese.

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