Measures of Balance and Fear of Falling in the Elderly

Abstract

Objective. The purpose of this study was to review, compare, and contrast the five most frequently cited scales of balance (Performance Oriented Assessment of Balance, 'Get Up and Go,' Berg Balance Scale, Functional Reach) and Falls Efficacy (Falls Efficacy Scale) with the intent of assisting clinicians in the process of selecting an appropriate instrument for use with older adults in a clinical or research setting.

Method. A search of the literature was conducted through MED-LINE for the years 1986-1996. Scales were reviewed based on six selected criteria: purpose of the scale, target population, scale reliability and validity, ease of use, mode and time needed for administration and scoring, and clinical usefulness for practitioners.

Results. The Get Up and Go Test (GUGT) and the Falls Efficacy Scale (FES) were identified as screening tools, while the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Performance Oriented Assessment of Balance (POAB), and the Functional Reach test (FR) were suggested for more in-depth evaluation. A summary of the information reached on each scale was compiled into several tables. Implications for use by practitioners are summarized.

Conclusion. A summary of the five most frequently cited scales of balance in the literature may help clinicians in selecting an appropriate scale for use with patients or clinical research studies.

Key Words:

• Falls
• balance

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Dayle Mari Nakamura

Jennifer R. Johnson was a graduate student in the School of Occupational Therapy, Texas Woman's University, Houston, TX at the time of this study. She is currently employed as an Occupational Therapist at Touro Infirmary in New Orleans, LA

Margo B. Holm

Debra Stewart is Lecturer, School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University and staff therapist at Erinoak Centre, Missis-sauga, Ontario. She is currently completing a MSc (Design, Measurement and Evaluation) at McMaster University.