Correlation between body mass index and postural balance in elderly

Falling is a common problem in elderly. Researches show that impairment of balance and postural control plays a major role in falling. The biomechanical evidence suggests that increasing BMI worsens the postural control. As falling is so important in elderly population, This study aimed to determine one of the factors for falls in elderly and also suggest way to prevent falling. A cross-sectional study, 30 women and men over 60 were selected. The Burg Balance Scale and Body Mass Index were measured and the relationship between them was investigated. Results showed that the relationship between BMI and balance based on Pearson test was R= -0.39 and significant (P<0.05).No Relationship was found between age and balance, but balance in men was better than women. It seems that there is a relationship between BMI and balance in older people, and this index can be used as a criterion to predict falls in elderly people.