Assessing Balance and Fall Efficacy in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Evidence-Based Instruments for Use in Recreational Therapy Practice

Authors

  • Thomas K. Skalko
  • Whitney Sauter
  • Lacey Burgess
  • David Loy

Keywords:

Assessment, measurement, recreational therapy, aging, fall prevention

Abstract

This manuscript will discuss specific evidence-based assessment instruments including the Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC Scale), 8-foot Up and Go (UG), and Multi-directional Reach Test (MDRT), used to assess balance and fall efficacy in older adults. The article will draw on literature and data from two corresponding pilot studies (Burgess, 2012; Sauter, 2012) to discuss the appropriateness, benefits, and effectiveness of the different balance measures used. Information presented in the article will aid in expanding the continuing body of knowledge on the topic of assessment, and more specifically balance assessments with older adults in the practice of Recreational Therapy.

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Issue

Vol. 47 No. 4 (2013)

Section

Regular Papers

License

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