Understanding Fear of Falling Levels in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Mixed Methods Study

Abstract

Background: Fear of falling is now recognized as an independent fall risk factor due to its prevalence in older adults. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding of fear of falling levels in community-dwelling older adults before and after attending a fall prevention clinic. Methods: An explanatory sequential mixed methods design was used. The Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I) tool assessed fear of falling levels before and after attending a fall prevention clinic (n=32). Semi-structured interviews were then conducted in a sample of these participants (n=12). Results: There was no statistically significant difference in the before (M=30.44, SD=9.8) and after (M=31.72, SD=8.3) FES-I scores. Three themes emerged from the qualitative analysis: 1. Concerns about falling, 2. Decreased concerns about falling and 3. An increased self-awareness of fall risks. Conclusion: Further use of cognitive-behavioural therapy should be considered in falls risk reduction interventions for community-dwelling older adults with fear of falling.