The clinical practice guideline for falls and fall risk

Abstract

Falling is a significant cause of injury and death in frail older adults. Residents in long-term care (LTC) facilities fall for a variety of reasons and are more likely to endure injuries after a fall than those in the community The American Medical Directors Association (AMDA) Clinical Practice Guideline is written to give LTC staff an understanding of risk factors for falls and provide guidance for a systematic approach to patient assessment and selection of appropriate interventions. It is intended to help facilities establish processes for evaluating, managing, and preventing falls. AMDA guidelines are written specifically for the elder in the LTC setting. Facility teams systematically address each individual's risk factors for falls and fall risks and the adverse consequences on the patient's functioning and quality of life. AMDA guidelines emphasize key care processes and are organized for ready incorporation into facility-specific policies and procedures to guide staff and practitioner practices and performance. © 2011 Society of Behavioral Medicine.