[Assessing fall risk and preventing falls in the elderly].
Assessment of fall risk in the elderly is clearly documented in the literature. However, intervention preventive strategies are not well identified. Two types of methods can be discussed: on the one hand, classical techniques using different tests and exercises in balance with materials and/or sensitization by dual task; on the other hand, rhythmic exercises. Their results and value are not quite established and further studies are needed to assess their prospective benefit, even if they seem interesting in some Parkinson's population. Physical activity and global fall management allow a better outcome in different gait parameters of the elderly.
Warzee
E
E
Service de Gériatrie, CHU NDB, Chênée, Belgique.
Petermans
J
J
D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control*; D000368:Aged; D015577:Geriatric Assessment / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D018570:Risk Assessment / Q000379:methods*