2011 Symposium Program - College of Health - University of Utah

The Effectiveness of the Matter of Balance Program for Community Dwelling
Elderly Adults: A Pilot Study
Researchers: Adams, V.; Irick, D.
Committee: Costa, D.; Mitchell, K.; Peterson, E.
Objective
To explore the effectiveness of Matter of Balance in improving fall self-efficacy
among community dwelling elderly adults.
Method
A nine week Matter of Balance program was conducted at three senior centers across
the Salt Lake Valley. Pre-test/post-test measurements were taken on 20 participants.
Measurements included the Falls Efficacy Scale International (FES-I), Tinetti Gait and
Balance Scale, Functional Reach, Meaningful Activity Participation Assessment
(MAPA), and three questions regarding fall self-efficacy. Quantitative analysis was
completed using SPSS 17.0; analytical tests used include Paired T-Test and ANOVA.
Results
Following the implementation of the program, there were significant changes in all
measurements, except the functional reach. There was an overall increase in fall self
efficacy, activity participation, and meaningfulness. Tinetti scores significantly
improved as well showing an improvement in gait and balance.
Conclusion
The Matter of Balance program was found effective in improving fall self-efficacy and
activity participation. The program also showed secondary benefits of improving
participants gait and balance. This program offers opportunities for occupational
therapist to become more active in community practice. Further research is needed
to further prove the effectiveness in the program in improving the fall self-efficacy of
community dwelling older adults.
Keywords
fall prevention, fear of falling, Tinetti Gait and Balance Scale, FES-I, MAPA, health
promotion
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