Applicability of Activities Listed in Modified Falls Efficacy Scale (MFES) In Indian Elderly

Abstract

Background: Falling is a major public health concern among the elderly. Fear of falling (FF) is a significant issue leading to the self-avoidance of regular physical activities, and the Modified Falls Efficacy Scale (MFES) measures the fear of falls in the elderly. However, in MFES, out of 10 indoor and 4 outdoor activities, not all activities are relatable to the Indian population. In contrast, some typical activities with a high risk of falls are not included. Hence, the study aims to assess the applicability of activities listed in MFES in the Indian elderly.
Methods: 104 elders, both males and females, from the community and institutions were evaluated. The MMSE and Geriatric Depression Scale were evaluated for cognition and depression symptoms. The risk of falls was assessed with TUG. Subjects were interviewed with MFES about their confidence level and the applicability of activities. Subjects were asked about any other activity that gives them fear of falls, which was not in MFES.
Results: Pearson’s Chi-square test revealed significant values (p<0.05) in the correlation of factors affecting falls with locality and gender and the correlation of some activities in MFES with locality and gender. The association of TUG and MFES revealed a negative correlation (p<0.001).
Conclusion: Seven indoor activities and three outdoor activities were applicable for all participants. Three indoor and one outdoor activities were gender-specific and were done by females and males, respectively. ‘Answering the telephone’ and ‘light gardening’ were found totally inapplicable, while seniors reported some other activities with fear of falls. Developing a new fall efficacy scale for Indian Elders will be beneficial.