The Relationship Between Visual Acuity and the Risk of Falls Among the Elderly at The Tresna Werdha Social Services Unit in Jember, 2026

Abstract

Introduction: The aging process is characterized by a decline in the body’s physiological functions, one of them are decreased visual acuity. In older adults, decreased visual acuity affects the vestibular system, leading to impaired balance and reduced ability to maintain postural stability, which increases the risk of falls. This study was conducted to determine the relationship between visual acuity and the risk of falls among older adults at the UPT PSTW Jember.

Method: This study employed a correlational design with a cross-sectional approach. The study population consisted of 100 participants, with a sample of 80 older adults selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected through visual acuity testing using the E Chart and fall risk assessment using the Morse Fall Scale (MFS), which were analyzed using Spearman’s Rho correlation test.

Result: The results of the study indicate that the majority of participants had low vision (82.5%) and that the majority were classified as being at high risk of falling (53.8%). The Spearman Rho correlation analysis yielded a p-value of 0.000 (p < 0.05) with a correlation coefficient of r = 0.729, indicating a significant association between visual acuity and the risk of falling, reflecting a strong correlation and a positive relationship.

Conclusion: The correlation results indicate that as visual acuity declines, the risk of falling increases. Declining vision impairs the ability to perceive the environment, judge distances, detect obstacles, and maintain balance, highlighting the need for interventions to improve the safety of older adults.