Objective: The main aim of this study was to investigate the relationship of cognitive function with fear of falling (FOF) and falls in people with Parkinson’s disease (PwPD).

Background: Fall incidence is significantly greater in PwPD when compared with healthy individuals and other neurological populations. The FOF is also common in this population and it contributes to the increased risk of falling in PwPD. The etiology of fall and FOF in PwPD is multifactorial. Yet, very few studies in PwPD have attempted to explore the relationship of cognitive function and aspects related to FOF and fall.

Method: 50 PwPD were assessed. Data related to history of fall was collected using a history of fall questionnaire. FOF was assessed using the Falls Efficacy Scale- International (FES-I), whilst cognitive function was assessed using the Montréal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) scale.  In addition, age, gender and the MDS-UPDRS (motor score) were collected from patients.

Results: MOCA total score was significantly associated with FES-I total score even after adjusting for confounders which included age, gender and the MDS-UPDRS (motor score) (P<0.0001).  In addition, MOCA total score could distinguish fallers from non-fallers (AUC=0.0798, P<0.0001).

Conclusion: This study indicated that FOF and history of fall in PwPD were significantly associated with cognitive function. By addressing cognitive deficits in PwPD, we may ameliorate the development of FOF and falls in this population.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/the-relationship-between-cognitive-function-fear-of-falling-and-history-of-fall-in-people-with-parkinsons-disease/