The Moderating Effect of Physical Activity on the Association Between Cognitive Function and Fear of Falling in Low-Income Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Purpose: The current study aimed to examine the association between cognitive function, fear of falling, and physical activity and assess the moderating effect of physical activity on the association between cognitive function and fear of falling. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted among community-dwelling older adults ( N = 255, mean age = 74.7 years, SD = 7.4 years). Sedentary time (ST), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and light-intensity physical activity were measured using an accelerometer. Bivariate analyses and a regression model were conducted to determine the moderating effect of physical activity. Results: The regression model found a statistically significant association between ST and fear of falling (β = 0.008; p < .001), and the moderating effect of physical activity was not significant. Conclusion: Findings suggest that older adults should engage in more MVPA rather than ST. The current study did not establish the moderating effect of physical activity.