Assessing balance in older adults in rural Ecuador: implications for sustainable lifestyle

Abstract

Background: in Ecuador there are 1,049,824 people over 65 years of age (6.5% of the total population), 42% live in rural areas (395,180 AM), 14.6% of poor households are made up of an older adult living alone, which constitutes a high increase in the risk of falling. In this research, we worked with 15 of 22 elderly people who attend the "Saquisili Senior Center" taking into account their contextual reality, respecting their integrity and availability. Objective: evaluate the balance of the elderly of the "Home for the Elderly Saquisili". Methods: this research is a quantitative observational study since it obtains specific data from the direct assessment of the balance of the elderly. A sociodemographic data survey was used with inclusion and exclusion criteria and the Berg Balance Scale. Results: 100% of those evaluated present a moderate risk of falls. The easiest test is "Standing without help" and the most difficult test is "Standing on one foot". Conclusions: the assessment of balance reveals that 100% of those evaluated have a moderate risk of falls. The risk of falls does not have any predominance or relationship with sociodemographic factors such as sex, age or type of housing. Balance assessment in older adults is essential to promote activities and reduce the risk of falls.