ANÁLISE DO EQUILÍBRIO FUNCIONAL EM IDOSOS INSTITUCIONALIZADOS

Abstract

Falls, considered a common accident among the elderly, cause complications such as depression, reduced quality of life, possible fractures, dependence to exercise basic daily activities, lack of confidence, social isolation, causing a large proportion of the elderly institutionalization and even death. The objective of this study was to evaluate the risk of falls in institutionalized elderly people through the application of the Berg balance scale, which is an essential test for the evaluation of the functional balance, allowing prediction of future falls. The mean value of the Berg balance scale in the study population was 34.33 with a minimum value of 20 points and a maximum of 42 points. Thus, all institutionalized elderly participants in the study of the city of Baependi / MG presented a risk of falls and difficulty in performing activities of functional reach and unipodal balance. It is of paramount importance the application of validated and reliable tools that will enable the physiotherapist to know the limitations of their patients, thus contributing to the elaboration of effective treatment plans.