Abstract
Background: This article identifies the independent predictors of falls in an implementation study of Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance(R) (TJQMBB) in older adults in rural West Virginia churches.
Methods: Falls and injuries were identified via calendars, questionnaire, and verbal reports.
Results: Fall predictors were gait speed (odds ratio [OR]: 0.27; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.08-0.90); low back pain (OR: 8.04; 95% CI: 1.71-37.79); and pain, stiffness, or swelling limiting activity (OR: 2.44; 95% CI: 1.09-5.45).
Conclusions: Determining differences between fallers and nonfallers may identify people with different fall risk profiles and ultimately better tailor fall prevention programming to individual needs.