Relationship Between Fear of Falling and Quality of Life in Nursing Home Residents: The Role of Activity Restriction

(1) Background: Fear of falling is the most common psychological consequence related to falls and is very prevalent among older adults. This study investigates the mediating role of activity restriction in the relationship between the fear of falling and health outcomes; (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from March to June 2018. Generalized structural equation modeling was conducted to test the mediating role of activity restriction; (3) Results: Residents with fear of falling were more likely to restrict their activities and residents who often or always restricted activities reported lower levels of quality of life and higher levels of depression. Severe activity restriction accounted for 75% of the total effect of fear of falling on quality of life and 69% of the total effect of fear of falling on depression, respectively; (4) Conclusions: Fall prevention efforts in nursing homes should focus on strategies or interventions to reduce residents’ excessive fear of falling and promote activity engagement. Physical and social activities will not only prevent future falls but also improve residents' quality of life and mental health.