title: Falls in the elderly: spectrum and prevention.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To provide family physicians with a practical, evidence-based approach to fall prevention in the elderly.
  
  
  METHODS
  MEDLINE was searched using terms relevant to falls among the elderly in the community and in institutions. Relevant English-language papers published from 1980 to July 2010 were reviewed. Relevant geriatric society guidelines were reviewed as well.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Falls are a common and serious health problem with devastating consequences. Several risk factors have been identified in the literature. Falls can be prevented through several evidence-based interventions, which can be either single or multicomponent interventions. Identifying at-risk patients is the most important part of management, as applying preventive measures in this vulnerable population can have a profound effect on public health.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Family physicians have a pivotal role in screening older patients for risk of falls, and applying preventive strategies for patients at risk.
authors.affiliation: Parkwood Hospital, St Joseph's Health Care, 801 Commissioners Rd E, London, ON N6C 5J1. tareef.alaama@sjhc.london.on.ca
authors.forename: Tareef
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Al-Aama
mesh_terms: D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control*; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D004856:Postural Balance; D012678:Sensation Disorders / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology