The Impact of Fear of Falling (FOF) on the Quality of Life of the Elderly: A Cross-Sectional Clinical Study in a Regional Health Center

Abstract

As life expectancy around the world has been steadily increasing, the geriatric syndrome of Frailty and Fear of Falling (FOF) have emerged as key factors correlating with the physical and mental health of the elderly as well as their quality of life. A number of studies have revealed that gender, age, chronic diseases, polypharmacy, family status, educational level, occupation and comorbidity are domains closely linked to frailty and the feeling of fear of falling, while aging-associated decline and psychosocial factors such as depression, stressful events and anxiety adversely affect the ability of seniors to perform their daily activities. This study investigates how the fear of falling affects the quality of life of the elderly who receive health care services at the Moira Health Centre in Heraklion, Crete, and how FOF correlates with frailty and other biopsychosocial factors. In response to the increasing number of publications on FOF and frailty among the elderly, the evidence-based information of the study attempts to provide useful knowledge regarding the optimal management of the physical and psychosocial needs of the elderly and facilitate the investigative efforts for an active and healthy ageing process.