Study on the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding prevention of recurrent falls in the elderly.

Abstract

Prevention of recurrent falls in the elderly is now increasingly important in developing countries. A cross sectional study was undertaken in Vellore, South India, to describe the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding prevention of recurrent falls among elderly with a previous history of a fall, as well as their caregivers. 45 % of the elderly had a repeat fall after the age of 60 years owing mainly to poor vision, osteoporosis, anemia or the use of more than 3 chronic medications. Both the elderly and the caregivers were found to have poor knowledge regarding prevention of falls. Health education (OR 0.418; 95% CI: .176-.991) and compliance to a prescribed intervention for at least 6 months (OR 0.088; 95% CI: .032-.244) were found to be associated with less of repeat falls. Health education with emphasis on the benefits of compliance to prescribed interventions may help prevent recurrent falls.