Personality traits and their association with falls and fall-related psychological concerns in adults aged 50 and older: a scoping review

Abstract

Background and Aims Falls remain a major health challenge in aging, yet little is known about how personality traits influence falls risk and related psychological concerns. This scoping review mapped existing evidence on relationships among personality traits, falls, fear of falling, and fall self-efficacy in older adults to identify key associations and research gaps.

Methods A comprehensive search of five databases (MEDLINE, APA PsycINFO, Web of Science, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus) was conducted from inception (1945) through December 2024. Eligible studies examined personality traits, assessed with validated instruments, in relation to falls, fear of falling, or fall self-efficacy in older adults (≥ 50 years). All empirical designs were included. Data extraction followed PRISMA-ScR guidance, and findings were synthesized descriptively.

Results Of 8060 records screened, eight studies met the inclusion criteria (three longitudinal, five cross-sectional). High neuroticism and low conscientiousness were the most consistently associated with greater fall risk and higher fear of falling. Extraversion showed generally protective associations with fear of falling, while Type A behaviour predicted higher fall incidence among men but not women. Openness and agreeableness showed no consistent patterns. Evidence on fall self-efficacy was limited to one study, and none addressed balance confidence. Measurement heterogeneity across personality and fall-related constructs limited comparability across studies.

Conclusion Personality traits, particularly emotional instability and conscientiousness, appear relevant to fall risk and psychological concerns, though evidence remains sparse. Key gaps include limited work on fall self-efficacy and balance confidence, under-representation of clinical populations, and inconsistent measurement approaches. Future studies should use standardized instruments, longitudinal designs, and broader personality frameworks to inform personalised fall prevention strategies.