Influence of Body Composition on Dynamic Balance in Older Adults

Abstract

Objective: Aging causes major changes in body composition which is related with lower muscular strength and endurance, as well as mobility and walking. Increase in accumulation of adipose tissue and increase in body fat can cause a reduction in body balance, which is a key contributing factor to falls. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to find the influence of skin fold thickness on dynamic balance in older adults. Methods: A total of 49 community dwelling older adults aged 65 years and older were recruited in this cross-sectional study. Skin fold calliper and time up and go (TUG) test was used to measure the skin fold thickness and dynamic balance respectively. The Karl Pearson’s coefficient was used to estimate the relationship between the variables. Results: The Karl Pearson correlation co-efficient showed moderate positive correlation between skin fold thickness and TUG (r=0.395), which was found to be statistically significant (p<0.05). Conclusion: Our finding suggests that balance is significantly related to the skin fold thickness measurement. Thus, body composition assessment can be considered for prevention and management of fall risk among the older adults. Keywords: Body composition, Dynamic balance, Elderly.