A preliminary study of static and dynamic standing balance and risk of falling in an independent elderly population with a particular focus on the limit of stability test

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to evaluate the balance ability of older adults from many points of view, and to evaluate fall risk. The effects of various parameters on the frequency of falls were also investigated using discriminant analysis. [Subjects and Methods] Subjects were 79 elderly (73.2 ± 4.2 yrs) with no serious disease living independently at home and 70 healthy young adults (20.7 ± 1.4 yrs). We conducted a posturographic evaluation, a two-point discrimination of pressure sensation at the plantar sole, measured grip strength and range of motion of the lower extremities, and conducted a clinical balance test (Berg Balance Test). [Results] The following relationship was obtained: Z (discriminant function) = 0.002×the total value of the Limit of Stability test + 0.139×Grip Strength -4.15. Moreover, the female group showed a significantly higher fall rate than the male group, and had a higher center of pressure speed than the male group. [Conclusion] Total score of the limit of stability test and grip strength were related to the frequency of falls, suggesting that these parameters may be useful in screening for falls.