Abstract
Abstract
Aims: 1) To determine fall risk assessment using subjective and objective measures; 2) To understand older adults' perception on fall risk assessment.
Methodology: An explanatory sequential mixed methods design was used and consisted of two phases. Phase 1, the quantitative data was collected from nineteen older adults at an independent living facility in Orlando, Florida. Phase 2, the qualitative data was collected from three participants of Phase 1. After obtaining Institutional Review Board approval, the study was conducted at Lutheran Towers an independent living facility located in the downtown area of Orlando, Florida. Three measurement tools were used: demographic data sheet, an objective tool: BTrackS™ Balance Test (BBT), and Short Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I).
Results: In phase 1, 37% of participants had a high risk for falls assessed by the objective measure (BBT), and about 11% had high concern of fall risk assessed by the subjective measure (Short FES-I). Approximately 32% had congruent results between subjective and objective measures and 68 % presented incongruent results between subjective and objective measures. In phase 2, three themes were generated from the qualitative data :1) Perception and experience on fall risk assessment; 2) Perception of the subjective measure (Short FES-I) and 3) Perception of the objective measure (BBT).
Conclusion: Those who have incongruent perceptions of their fall risk and physical abilities are most at risk. Performing fall risk assessment using both subjective and objective measures is critical for developing fall prevention plans, to identify those most at risk.
Thesis Completion
2019
Semester
Summer
Thesis Chair/Advisor
Thiamwong, Ladda
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)
College
College of Nursing
Department
Nursing
Degree Program
Nursing
Language
English
Access Status
Open Access
Release Date
8-1-2019
Recommended Citation
Dool, MaryAnn, "Fall Risk Assessment in Community- Dwelling Older Adults: An Explanatory Sequential Mixed Methods Study" (2019). Honors Undergraduate Theses. 571.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/honorstheses/571