Association between Fear of Falling and Balance in Elderly with Knee Osteoarthritis

Abstract

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder among older adults that often leads to impaired balance and an increased risk of falls. Fear of falling (FOF) is a common psychological concern within this population, further limiting mobility and diminishing quality of life. This study aims to examine the association between FOF and balance among elderly individuals with KOA, emphasizing how these factors collectively influence fall risk. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 43 older adults diagnosed with KOA. FOF was assessed using the Modified Falls Efficacy Scale, while balance and fall risk was evaluated using the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG). Descriptive statistics were applied to summarize demographic data using counts and percentages for categorical variables. The Chi-Square test was employed to assess the relationship between FOF and fall risk. Results: The findings revealed that 88.3% of participants did not experience significant FOF, while 11.6% reported fear. Regarding fall risk, 65% were categorized as having normal risk, 21% were at risk, and 14% had a high risk. A significant association was observed between FOF and fall risk (p < 0.001), indicating that higher fear levels were linked to impaired balance. Conclusion: FOF has a significant impact on balance, daily activities, and functional mobility among elderly individuals with KOA. The observed association between FOF and balance impairment highlights the need for targeted rehabilitation strategies aimed at improving confidence, stability, and fall prevention in this population.