The occurrence of falls and their context in a two-year follow up of institutionalized elderly persons

Abstract

The objective of this study was to identify, among institutionalized elders, the occurrence of falls and the characterization of their context. This descriptive-exploratory study, using a quantitative approach, was performed in five geriatric long-term care facilities in Goiânia (Goiás state). A questionnaire was utilized which addressed information regarding the occurrence of falls in the 2005 to2007 follow-up and their context. The participants were 59 elderly individuals who met the selection criteria. The results showed a 54.2% prevalence of falls during the studied period. Regarding the context, falls occurred mainly during the day, outdoors, while walking, on dry pavement, due to tripping on/over an object or surface, and while wearing slippers. The results provide information regarding the circumstances surrounding falls that can help to make their prevention a priority for the local population, including addressing inadequacies in the environment and the use of appropriate footwear in order to prevent falls.

Descriptors: Aged; Homes for the Aged; Accidental Falls; Environment.