Longitudinal correlations among the berg balance scale, falls efficacy scale, and morse fall scale: a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial

Background Falls are a leading cause of disability and loss of independence among older adults. The Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Falls Efficacy Scale (FES), and Morse Fall Scale (MFS) are commonly used to evaluate balance performance, fall-related self-efficacy (confidence in performing activities without falling), and fall risk. However, evidence regarding the longitudinal relationships among these measures remains limited. Therefore, this study examined the associations between BBS, FES, and MFS scores in older adults over time. Objective The purpose of this study was to investigate at the association between balance performance, fall-related self-efficacy, and fall risk in older individuals over a 6-week period using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Falls Efficacy Scale (FES), and Morse Fall Scale. Methodology A prospective correlational study was conducted among 66 older adults aged 60 years and above attending the Physiotherapy Outpatient Department of Sir Sayajirao General Hospital, Vadodara. Participants were assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Falls Efficacy Scale (FES), and Morse Fall Scale (MFS) at baseline, 4 weeks, and 6 weeks. At every evaluation point, correlations between outcome measures were examined. Results At baseline, a weak negative correlation was observed between the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Morse Fall Scale (MFS) ( r = − 0.282, p = 0.022), while no significant correlations were found between BBS and Falls Efficacy Scale (FES) or between FES and MFS. At 4 weeks, moderate correlations were observed between BBS and MFS ( r = − 0.378, p = 0.002) and between FES and MFS ( r = 0.497, p < 0.001). By 6 weeks, a moderate negative correlation was observed between BBS and FES ( r = − 0.478, p < 0.001), along with strong correlations between BBS and MFS ( r = − 0.704, p < 0.001) and between FES and MFS ( r = 0.714, p < 0.001). Conclusion The associations among the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Falls Efficacy Scale (FES), and Morse Fall Scale (MFS) increased over the 6-week observation period. These findings support the complementary use of these measures for assessing balance, fall-related self-efficacy, and fall risk in older adults. Because of the correlational design, causal inferences regarding physiotherapy cannot be made.