Aging & Society: Eighth Interdisciplinary Conference

Abstract

The aging process is characterized by a significant increase in falling risk associated with a remarkable decrease in physical activity. Studies suggest the fear of falling and reduced physical activity negatively affect the quality of life of the elderly. It is possible that the limited flexibility imposed by these reduced levels of physical activity could exacerbate the risk of falling and further impair quality of life. This study investigates the correlation between physical flexibility and quality of life as well as number of falls in the elderly. Eighty-one participants completed quality of life and demographic questionnaires, self-reported the number of falls in the past year, and performed the chair sit-and-reach and the back scratch flexibility tests. Correlation analysis showed positive correlations of upper and lower body flexibility with quality of life components and negative with annual falls. The quality of life components more commonly related to flexibility levels were sleep disturbances, depression, and anxiety symptoms. Annual falls were less frequent when both flexibility areas were involved, particularly the upper body area. The positive impact of upper and lower body flexibility on annual falls suggests that physical flexibility improves the dynamic range of movements, reducing the risk of falling. Furthermore, physical flexibility seems to be associated with improvement in sleep and emotional regulation. Providers can utilize this information and incorporate it into their daily practice in an effort to prevent falling in the elderly and subsequently improve their quality of life.