Hand Grip Strength and Older Adults: Is Hand Grip Strength Associated with Self-Efficacy in Older Adults?

Prior research indicates that older adult’s grip strength is associated with overall body strength and the ability to perform functional tasks. Likewise, research indicates that those with a fear of falling are less likely to participate in the rigorous physical activities that would strengthen their muscles and reduce their risk of falling [1]. Hence, the purpose of this study was to determine if there was a meaningful relationship between grip strength and self-efficacy with regards to falling in older adults. The participants were male and female adults ≥65 years of age (n = 35). Each completed the FES-I survey to assess their fear of falling. Maximal grip (MG) strength (Kg) was then assessed with the Jamar hand grip dynamometer. MG scores were then converted to Newtons (N), normalized to body mass, and then allometrically scaled to body mass and height. FES-I scores were then compared with Pearson correlation coefficients (r) with the various metrics of MG. Results demonstrated moderate to nearing strong significant negative relationships between FES-I scores and MG metrics ranging from r= -0.36 to -0.44 (p<0.05). Thus, it was concluded that stronger adults have a lower fear of falling than their weaker counterparts. It is postulated that older adults with a lower fear of falling will continue to engage in exercise which in turn will help maintain their strength levels and perpetuate continued exercise. Conversely, older adults with a greater fear of falling (i.e. lower strength levels) will disassociate from exercise, hence leading to even lower strength levels.