[Accidental injuries in older adults: a challenge for the health systems].
OBJECTIVE
To identify factors (sociodemographic, health, and social support) associated with the presence of accidental injuries in older adults living in deprived urban neighborhoods in four Mexican municipalities.


METHODS
Cross-sectional survey carried out in 2004-2005, with a non-probabilistic, intentional sample of 799 male and female elderly living in deprived urban areas in four Mexican municipalities. For the statistical analysis, non-parametric tests and multivariate logistic regression models were used.


RESULTS
More than a third (37%) of the sample reported injuries; with falls being the main cause. Home was the venue where most accidents took place (52%). Risk factors for accidental injuries were: advanced age, working, greater number of illnesses, consumption of more medicines and remedies, self-perception of "poor" health , consumption of alcoholic beverages, inadequate family support and being a caretaker of others.


CONCLUSIONS
The multi-causality of accidental injuries in older adults demands the participation of all sectors of society, and particularly public health interventions.
Ruelas González
María Guadalupe
MG
Centro de Investigación en Sistemas de Salud, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México.
Salgado de Snyder
V Nelly
VN
D000056:Accident Prevention; D000059:Accidents / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D000061:Accidents, Home / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000062:Accidents, Occupational / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000428:Alcohol Drinking; D017028:Caregivers / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D015897:Comorbidity; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004358:Drug Therapy / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005191:Family Characteristics; D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012307:Risk Factors; D012649:Self Concept; D035862:Vulnerable Populations / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control