Recommendations for environmental design research correlating falls and the physical environment.
The risk of falls by aging individuals (55 years or older) is increased by physical elements within the built environment. Many environmental factors are considered high-risk hazards that can lead to serious injuries such as hip fractures. This article lists the design features most often mentioned in the literature as possible contributing factors to falls that result in injury. In addition, recommendations for research to assist designers, architects, planners, facilities management teams, and health care providers in designing physical environments that meet the specific requirements of individual users are offered. With concrete empirical research, the risk of falls and consequent injuries can be reduced, making the built environment safer and more user-friendly.
Dept. of Merchandising and Environmental Design, College of Human Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock 79409.
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Shroyer
D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control*; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging; D004777:Environment; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D012106:Research; D012307:Risk Factors