Assessment of Fall Risk, Reaction Time, Spatial Orientation, and Lower Extremity Strength in Dementia Patients: A Correlation Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Dementia is an important disease leading to cognitive decline and dysfunction in geriatric individuals. The increased risk of falls in patients with dementia leads to decreased quality of life as well as increased health costs. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between fall risk, reaction time, spatial orientation, and lower extremity strength in patients with dementia by analyzing the interaction of cognitive and physical factors. Materials and Methods: Thirty participants with mild to moderate dementia were recruited from nursing homes in Ankara, Turkey. The participants were administered the Johns Hopkins Fall Risk Assessment Tool (JHDRDA), the Spatial Orientation Test, reaction time measurement and the 30 Second Sit and Stand Test. Correlation analyses were performed to examine the relationships between these factors. Results: Significant associations were found between JHFRAT scores and reaction time (r=0.518, p=0.004), spatial orientation (r=-0.389, p=0.037), and lower extremity strength (r=-0.478, p=0.009). These findings highlight the need for holistic fall prevention strategies addressing both cognitive impairments and physical limitations in dementia patients. Conclusion: As a result of the study, cognitive impairments and physical factors were found to be associated with the risk of falls in patients with dementia. To reduce the risk of falls and improve the quality of life of people with dementia, patients should be assessed comprehensively. These findings emphasize the need for holistic fall prevention strategies that address both cognitive impairments and physical limitations in patients with dementia. Keywords: dementia, falls, reaction time, spatial orientation, muscle strength