Current status and influencing factors of fear of falling among elderly inpatients

Abstract

Objective To investigate the current status and influencing factors of fear of falling among elderly inpatients, so as to provide theoretical basis for clinical workers in deciding nursing measures for fear of falling. Methods Totals of 180 elderly inpatients in Department of Endocrinology were selected by convenience sampling and were surveyed by questionnaires. Scores of fear of falling of elderly inpatients were assessed by Modified fall efficacy scale (MFES). Influencing factors of fear of falling were analyzed by multiple linear regression of Self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) and Self-rating depression scale (SDS). Results Average scores of fear of falling among elderly inpatients were (5.60±1.50) points; incidence rate of fear of falling was 84.1%. Average scores of anxiety were (50.68±11.56); 100 patients had symptoms of anxiety, with an incidence rate of 61.0%. Average scores of depression were (50.85±11.68); 92 patients had symptoms of depression, with an incidence rate of 56.1%. Differences appeared in the aspects of age, experience of falling, marriage status, whether with walking aid, whether taking special drugs, and status of anxiety and depression (P<0.05). Conclusions Quality of life, physical and psychological health of elderly inpatients were seriously affected, because efficacy scores of fear of falling were low, yet with high incidence rate, and also high incidence rate of anxiety and depression. Medical workers should take effective measures to improve the current status of fear of falling and reduce incidence of falling. Key words: Falling; Elderly; Anxiety; Depression; Questionnaire