Sanjay Eapen Samuel
Laxmi Memorial College of Physiotherapy, India
Title: Self-perceived handicap and balance performance among elderly with disturbances in balance: A correlational study
Biography
Biography: Sanjay Eapen Samuel
Abstract
Background & Purpose: Balance disturbance due to dizziness is one of the major areas of concern of the elderly. Altered balance interferes with moving about freely and performing activities of daily living. An individual’s perception of handicap due to balance disturbances and actual balance performance on balance measures may vary. The study was done to estimate the correlation between self-perceived handicap and balance performance.
Method: Balance was measured using Berg balance scale (BBS) and self-perceived handicap was measured using dizziness handicap inventory (DHI) in a sample of 40 elderly subjects. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, multiple regression analysis and t-tests to estimate correlation between BBS and DHI.
Results: 70% of the subjects in the study group had medium levels of fall risk as inferred from BBS scores. DHI scores indicated 60% of subjects perceiving their handicap as moderate, 32.5% as mild and 7.5% as severe. Strong negative correlation (r=-0.67, p<0.001) was found between the DHI and BBS scores.
Conclusion: In individuals with disturbed balance, self-perceived handicap evaluated with DHI correlates with actual balance dysfunction as estimated by BBS scores.