Viktorija Piscalkienė, Ausra Kavaliauskiene, Brigita Zachovajeviene, Milda Gintiliene, Laura Rutkauskiene
Abstract
Proper balance and mobility are essential conditions for successful daily activities and hobbies. The most important aspect of mobility is the ability to walk safely without falling. However, falls are frequent among older adults and may lead to severe health disorders and loss of independence. Understanding of causes of falls significantly broadens the opportunities for prevention. The risk of falls decreases with adjustment of individual and social environment. This study was conducted to establish the risk factors for falls among older adults. Quantitative data analysis was performed using statisticals methods (t test for comparison of means, ANOVA test, correlation analysis). The study sample was non-probability and comprised of 500 subjects aged 60 years and older. Results demonstrated that most common risk factors for falls in home environment are absence of holders, slippery floor, carpets, and bathtub. In public environment, the risk is mostly increased by inadequate pavements and stairs, slippery roads and pavements. Monthly or more frequently the falls are experienced by 18%, several times in half a year – 27%, less frequently – 55% of study subjects. The risk for falls is increased not only by external factors in environment, but also by individual health, such as eye or hearing disorders. Risk of falls is associated with age: the lowest risk is among 60 years old people, and with every 5 years the risk has increasing trend. Health care professionals and social workers pay low attention for increasing awareness and consulting of people regarding the prevention and risk factors for falls.
Article in Lithuanian
doi:10.5200/sm-hs.2012.094
Keyword(s): falls; elderly; risk factors for falls
DOI: 10.5200/339
Full Text: PDF