Prevalence of High Risk of Falls among Elderly in Old Age Homes of Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

Background - Falls are one of the measure concerns in geriatric population resulting in unintentional coming to rest on the ground. Majority of falls are multifactorial which commonly results in morbidity and mortality in rare cases. The aim of our study was to estimate the prevalence of high risk of falls in elderly in old age homes. Method -An observational study involving 140 participants in old age homes of Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India were selected by convenient sampling and prevalence was assessed by using TUG test, 30 second chair stand test, 4-stage balance test. Result – prevalence of high fall risk which impacted the physical capabilities and quality of life of elderly were 52.85%, 47.85%,55.71% according to TUG test, 30 second chair stand test, and 4 stage balance Test. Conclusion – Falls are major concern among elderly living in old age homes of Aurangabad. Our findings may assist the geriatric healthcare system to take early measures for elderly to prevent falls and spread awareness. Key words: Prevalence, Risk of fall, elderly, old age homes, TUG, 30 sec chair stand test, 4 stage balance Test, Aurangabad.