LCSH
Falls (Accidents) in old age--United States--Prevention; Congregate housing--United States; Older people
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine whether participation in body mechanics training (BMT) as part of an Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) re-training program reduced fear of falling in community-dwelling older adults (65 years and older). This study examined the effect of BMT on fear of falling in 10 independent community-dwelling older adults. Fear of falling was measured at the start and conclusion of BMT using the Survey of Activities and Fear of Falling in the Elderly (SAFFE). A brief questionnaire on BMT effectiveness was also administered. Participants were placed into one group and were instructed on the use of proper body mechanics. They were then asked to practice learned principles while performing various IADL. While no significant difference was found between the pre- and post-test participant level of perceived fear of falling (SAFFE), questionnaire results suggest that participants increased their awareness and confidence during daily activities as a result of increased knowledge in body mechanics principles. These findings suggest that other measures such as self-efficacy should be considered to determine the effectiveness of BMT in community-dwelling older adults.
First Advisor
Tatiana Kaminsky
Date of Completion
Spring 2011
Degree Type
Thesis
Format
URI
http://soundideas.pugetsound.edu/ms_occ_therapy/15
Language
English
Rights
Degree Name
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT)
Date of Award
1-1-2011
Department
Occupational Therapy
Institution
University of Puget Sound