Practice of environmental modifications and identification of its barriers in homes of community-dwelling elderly with moderate to high risk of falls

Abstract

Background: Age is one of the key risk factors for falls. The prevalence of falls in Indian older adults is seen to be 14 to 53%. The economic consequences of falls are critical to family, community and society. The main risk factors for falls are divided into four dimensions-biological, behavioural, environmental and socioeconomic factors. The risk of falling is increased by the interaction of biological with behavioural and environmental factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 60 community-dwelling elderly with moderate to high risk of falls (0-40/56 on Berg Balance scale) and no history of upper or lower limb injury. Convenience sampling method was used. After taking their consent, elderly were assessed for their risk of falls on Berg Balance Scale. Participants fulfilling the criteria were presented with a self-made questionnaire about practice of environmental modifications and identification of its barriers. Results: 31% of the elderly individuals experienced falls in the past one year with four being the average number of falls experienced. The study showed that the elderly are practising at least a few modifications in each domain. Lack of available information (95%) was the most perceived barrier. Conclusions: The study showed that all the elderly are practising at least a few modifications in every domain. The barriers identified in the study need to be worked upon for an efficient practice of modifications thereby contributing to fall prevention.