Article

OBJECTIVE: To identify factors associated with increased likelihood of reporting
a recent fall among people with multiple sclerosis.
This study was exploratory in
its intent to examine sense of coherence as a contextual influence on fall risk.
The study also sought to confirm that variables previously identified as fall
risk factors for people with multiple sclerosis persist when tested in a
population-based sample. DESIGN: The study was cross-sectional and data was
obtained in the context of a population-based study of people with multiple
sclerosis living in Stockholm. SUBJECTS: A total of 164 people with multiple
sclerosis, age range 19-79 years. METHODS: Data were gathered through established
instruments. Key instruments utilized included the sense of coherence scale, the
Lindmark Motor Capacity Assessment's subscale for balance, and the 10-metre
walking test. A logistic regression model examined factors associated with
reporting a fall in the past 3 months. RESULTS: Of the participants, 62 (38%)
reported experiencing at least one fall in the past 3 months. Reduced walking
speed, impaired balance, and weak sense of coherence were associated with falls
in the past 3 months. CONCLUSION: These findings underscore the importance of
examining diverse and modifiable influences on fall risk, including walking
speed, balance and sense of coherence, in future studies involving people with
multiple sclerosis.

Langue : ANGLAIS