[Preventing falls and fractures today].
The aim of preventive interventions is to reduce the number of falls and their traumatic consequences, especially hip fractures. A number of preventive interventional studies have shown that multifactorial, multidisciplinary interventions (improving mobility, reducing the use of psychotropic medications and environmental homes modifications) for community dwelling older people are effective. Improving strength and balance is key. Monofactorial interventions (education, home hazard modification) have not been shown to be effective. Supplementation with Vitamin D in association with calcium, in addition to its protective effect on fractures seems to reduce de number of falls by improving muscle strength. Taking into account this new information in everyday practice is of utmost importance.
Loew
François
F
Département de l'action sociale et de la santé, 24, Av. Beau-Séjour, 1206 Geneve. francois.loew@hcuge.ch
Maupetit
Christine
C
D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control*; D000368:Aged; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors