Older Adult Fall Prevention Behaviors After Emergency Treatment

November 10, 2024

min read

Summary

The research examined fall-prevention behaviors in seniors discharged from an urban emergency department after a fall incident. Findings indicate that many participants adopted some but not all recommended safety practices. While nearly half implemented home modifications or followed health advice, adherence was inconsistent, often due to knowledge gaps, financial constraints, or lack of support. The results underscore the importance of continued guidance and accessible resources to empower fall-risk seniors in adopting preventive measures for safer living conditions.

Reference research

Older adult falls prevention behaviors 60 days post-discharge from an urban emergency department after treatment for a fall

Research background and method

This study by Shankar, Treadway, and Taylor et al. delves into the post-discharge actions of older adults after an emergency department visit due to a fall. Previous research confirms the high incidence of falls among older adults and highlights the necessity of preventive behaviors post-discharge, yet data on actual compliance have been limited. The study aimed to assess fall-prevention behavior uptake among adults 60+ years old, two months after being discharged from an urban emergency department.

Using a cohort of older adults recently discharged after a fall, the researchers gathered data through follow-up interviews, documenting actions taken to mitigate fall risks. The study assessed whether individuals had adopted recommended measures such as home safety modifications, exercises for strength and balance, and medication reviews.

The research involved structured follow-up interviews with older adults who had received emergency care for a fall, focusing on their adoption of recommended safety measures two months after discharge.

Explanation of findings

This study found that older adults were taking some steps to prevent future falls, but not everyone followed through on all the recommended behaviors. About half made their homes safer by removing tripping hazards, adding grab bars, or adjusting lighting. Others took up exercises to improve balance and strength or consulted their doctors about medications that could affect balance. However, financial limitations, lack of awareness, and insufficient follow-up support often prevented them from fully embracing these practices. In short, while there’s awareness of fall prevention, many seniors need more resources and encouragement to follow through consistently.

Actionable takeaways

Provide Affordable Resources: Make safety equipment affordable and accessible to encourage home modifications.

Offer Strength and Balance Training: Community centers and clinics can improve access to exercise classes aimed at fall prevention.

Enhance Post-Discharge Support: Following up on seniors post-discharge can reinforce safety practices and increase compliance with fall prevention.

Raise Awareness: More education on fall prevention benefits, especially around medication management and home safety, can promote long-term safety habits.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the gap between fall-prevention recommendations and actual post-discharge behavior in older adults, pointing to a need for more support and affordable solutions. To address this, healthcare systems and community organizations could work together, offering ongoing guidance and resources that help seniors incorporate fall-prevention habits effectively, fostering a safer environment for older adults to age confidently and independently.

Reference

Shankar, K.N., Treadway, N.J., Taylor, A.A. et al. Older adult falls prevention behaviors 60 days post-discharge from an urban emergency department after treatment for a fall. Inj. Epidemiol. 4, 18 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40621-017-0114-y

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