Factors Associated with Fear of Falls in Indian Elderly: A Systematic Review Dhavale Sampada1,3,*, Singh Sonia2, Parasher Raju K.3 1Assistant Professor, PhD Scholar, Physiotherapy Department, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab 2Assistant Professor, Physiotherapy Department, Punjabi University, Patiala 3Director/Principal, Amar Jyoti Institute of Physiotherapy, University of Delhi *Corresponding Author: Sampada Dhavale, 95, Anandvan, A-6, Paschim Vihar, New Delhi-110063, e-mail: s.jahagirdar@yahoo.co.in
Online published on 23 December, 2019. Abstract Background Fear of falls (FOF) is a risk for falls and collateral morbidity as it imposes self-limitations on activity. Given the increasing population of elderly in India, its unique unstructured physical environment, cultural practices and paucity of research, it was important to have a strong understanding of FOF and the factors associated with it. Objective Determination ofprevalence and factors associated with fear of falls in the Indian elderly from review of literature. Methodology A systematic review based on PRISMA guidelineswas used to synthesize and analyse existing literature. Results Six Indian studies met the inclusion criteria and were utilized for synthesis. The prevalence of FOF ranged from 33.2% to 44.2%, and various biological, psychological and social factors were found to be associated with FOF. Conclusion There is high prevalence of FOF in India. Inspite of its serious impact on health and quality of life of elderly, this construct is inadequately studied within the Indian context. Top Keywords Fear of Fall, Indian, Elderly, Factors associated, Falls. Top |