NYC Gazette

Falls are a significant health concern for individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic disease affecting the central nervous system. Over half of those with MS experience at least one fall within six months, raising questions about their perception of fall-risk and the role cognitive function may play.

A study published in Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders, co-authored by Dr. Marissa Barrera from the Katz School of Science and Health, investigates the relationship between cognitive performance and discrepancies between physiological and perceived fall-risk in MS patients.

Fall-risk is assessed through physiological measures, such as gait speed, and perceived risk, often evaluated via self-reported tools like the Modified Falls Efficacy Scale. Dr. Tobia Zanotto from the University of Kansas Medical Center noted that while many align these measures, some overestimate or underestimate their risk, potentially leading to unnecessary activity restrictions or overconfidence.

The study analyzed data from 201 MS patients categorized into four groups based on their physiological and perceived fall-risk. Cognitive function was measured using the NeuroTrax computerized cognitive battery.

Findings showed that 27.4% of participants had discordant fall-risk perceptions; however, these individuals did not exhibit significantly different cognitive scores compared to those with concordant perceptions. This suggests cognitive impairment does not fully explain misjudged fall-risk.

Within concordant groups, lower cognitive performance was observed among those with high physiological and perceived risk compared to low-risk counterparts. This supports links between cognitive decline and increased fall-risk in MS.

Dr. Danya Pradeep Kumar highlighted that while cognitive impairment didn't account for perception mismatches, it impacts overall fall susceptibility. The study suggests targeted interventions could benefit those with high physiological and perceived risks by improving cognition and motor skills.

The research also points to clinical considerations for identifying individuals who misjudge their risk: those underestimating (high physiological—low perceived) may need more education on prevention, while those overestimating (low physiological—high perceived) might benefit from confidence-building interventions.

Future studies could explore psychological factors influencing risk perception or examine changes over time through longitudinal research. Dr. Barrera emphasized improving assessment methods and developing interventions to reduce falls and enhance life quality for people with MS.