Does patient environment have any influence on balance?

Background Although patient environment is a factor to consider when planning a vestibular rehabilitation program, there are no studies correlating this factor to outcomes of balance assessment. Aim To evaluate whether there are differences in objective evaluation of balance in elderly patients at risk of falls according to the environment in which they live (urban or rural) and their lifestyle (considering cardiovascular risk factors). Methods Cross-sectional study of a sample of 139 elderly patients with high risk of falls assessed with objective outcome measures: Computer Dynamic Posturography (CDP), and the modified Timed Up-and-Go (TUG) test; and subjective outcome measures: Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) and short Falls Efficacy Scale-International (short FES-I). Rural or urban environment was defined according to administrative and legal criteria. Results Elderly patients at risk of fall living in rural environment show better composite results in SOT with better scores in Condition 6 and fewer falls during the CDP. They also require fewer steps to perform the TUG test. Discussion The present study provides evidence that patient environment has an influence in balance. Conclusion Patient environment should be considered when analyze tests evaluating static and dynamic balance.