Association between fear of falling and balance in elderly with knee osteoarthritis

Zainul Abidin, Nur Fazlen and Mustapa, Nurul Amirah (2026) Association between fear of falling and balance in elderly with knee osteoarthritis. International Journal of Allied Health Sciences, 10 (2). pp. 3441-3446. E-ISSN 2600-8491

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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 aimedto examine the association between FOF and balance among elderly individuals with KOA, emphasizing how these factors 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 (MFES), while balance and fall risk wereevaluated 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 associationbetween 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, χ²(2, N = 43) = 21.37, p < 0.001, indicating that higher fear levels were linked to impaired balance and significant fall risk. Conclusion:The findings suggest that greater FOF is associated with poorer balance and an increased risk of falls among older adults with KOAthat may adversely impact daily activitiesand 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 preventionin this population.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	balance; elderly; falls; fear; osteoarthritis
Subjects:	R Medicine > R Medicine (General)
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences > Department of Physical Rehabilitation Sciences Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences
Depositing User:	Sr Nurul Amirah Mustapa
Date Deposited:	21 Aug 2026 11:39
Last Update:	21 Aug 2026 11:39
Queue Number:	2026-08-Q4864
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/130952

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