[Factors related to falls among the community-dwelling elderly].
The purpose of this study was to investigate falls among community elderly and the factors related thereto. The cross-sectional method was utilized in this study. A sample of 118 subjects aged 65 and over completed structured questionnaires and balance tests. Forty participants (34%) had fallen once or more in the past. Multivariate logistic regression showed that incidents of falls were significantly related to general perceived health status (OR=0.938, 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.900-0.997), one legged stance with eyes closed (OR=0.788, 95% CI=0.626-0.933), and mobility (OR=1.184, 95% CI=1.026-1.367). Falling is a major health risk for older adults. Health professionals can therefore develop fall preventive programs with a focus on monitoring perceived health status, dynamic balance, and mobility ability, and interventions that are associated with these factors.
Chin
Mau-Yu
MY
Department of Nursing, Tzu Chi College of Technology. cmolly@tccn.edu.tw
Lu
Der-Fa
DF
Wu
Mei-Hui
MH
D000058:Accidental Falls; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D004856:Postural Balance