Abstract Introduction Fall-related injuries among older people is a significant public health issue. Method To identify medical, general health and lifestyle factors associated with falls and multiple falls in older persons, a representative sample of people aged 65+ years living in the community in New South Wales (NSW) Australia were surveyed regarding their falls experience, lifestyle and general health. Results One-quarter of respondents indicated they had fallen in the past 12months. People who fell were more likely to be aged 85+ years, have cataracts, musculoskeletal system and connective tissue disorders, major diseases of the circulatory, respiratory and nervous systems, use four or more medications, use a mobility aid and be overweight than non-fallers. Individuals aged 85+ years and those who experienced circulatory diseases, used four or more medications and used mobility aids were more likely to experience multiple falls. Discussion This representative population-based survey reinforces the multi-factorial nature of falls and the complex interaction of risk factors that increase the likelihood of individuals having a fall or multiple falls. Agencies focused on community-based fall prevention strategies should adopt a systematic, integrated approach to reduce the burden of fall injury at the population-level and should have mechanisms in place at the population-level to monitor the success of fall reduction strategies.
Highlights ► Falls are an important cause of serious injury amongst older individuals. ► This study demonstrates the ability to achieve population-level baseline data to monitor the future impact of fall injury reduction strategies ► Reinforces the multi-factorial nature of falls and the complex interaction of fall risk factors and highlights the need for monitoring success of implementation strategies at the population-level. ► Different prevention strategies are needed to address the needs of sub-populations as fall risk factors can differ between single and multiple fallers.
Health and lifestyle risk factors for falls in a large population-based sample of older people in Australia
Journal of Safety Research ; 45 ; 7-13
2012-11-29
7 pages
Aufsatz (Zeitschrift)
Elektronische Ressource
Englisch
Falls among older adults—risk factors and prevention strategies
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