Assessment of Home-Based Falls Among Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study Based on a Reporting System
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12707/RVI25.56.42235Keywords:
accidental falls, elderly, risk assessment, home environment;, patient safetyAbstract
Background: Home-based falls among older adults are frequent and potentially serious events with clinical, functional, psychological, and economic consequences.
Objective: To identify factors associated with higher home-based fall-risk criticality among older adults in the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
Methodology: A cross-sectional observational study with an analytical component was conducted using retrospective clinical data extracted from validated clinical reports covering the period 2019-2022. Risk criticality was assessed through a risk-assessment matrix. Statistical association tests and multivariate logistic regression were applied.
Results: A total of 137 notifications were analyzed. Harm was reported in 79.5% of cases, with fractures sustained in 36%. Higher risk criticality levels were associated with the occurrence of fractures, multiple injuries, psychological harm, and economic consequences. Although polypharmacy and mobility impairments were common among patients, they were not directly associated with risk criticality.
Conclusion: Fall-risk criticality is influenced by multiple factors, the identification of which is essential for guiding effective prevention strategies. Reporting such events is crucial for designing targeted fall prevention interventions.
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