Korean J Rehabil Nurs.  2023 Jun;26(1):1-7. 10.7587/kjrehn.2023.1.

A Comparison of Fear of Falling in Older Adults with Physical Independence and Those with Hip Fracture Surgery

• Lee SJ
• Baek SH
• Ko Y

• KMID: 2544480
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.7587/kjrehn.2023.1

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to compare the level of fear of falling (FOF) and factors influencing FOF in older adults with physical independence versus with hip fracture surgery. Methods: Data for this cross-sectional study were collected from June to November 2021. The participants were 100 older adults with hip fracture surgery and 100 older adults who were physically independent. We examined the participants’ sociodemographic characteristics, fall-related characteristics, and FOF using the Korean version of the Short Falls Efficacy Scale International.
Results
Almost all the participants in both groups had moderate or high levels of concerns related to FOF. Factors influencing FOF were dizziness and being female. A history of falling in the past year(twice or more) was a significant factor affecting FOF among older adults who were physically independent, but not among those with hip fracture surgery. Conclusion: FOF is a risk factor for activity restriction and functional decline. Therefore, healthcare providers should routinely assess FOF among not only older adults with serious injuries from falls but also those with physical independence in the community. Moreover, nursing interventions for FOF in older adults with hip fracture surgery should be approached differently.

Keyword

Aged; Fear; Independent living; Hip fracture