Preventive strategy of fall for the prevention of fractures in older people: a review of the evidence

Abstract

This review aims to examine the effectiveness of fall-related strategies for fracture prevention among elderly population. Previous studies were reviewed using PubMed and Japan Centra Revuo Medicina databases. Our five research questions concerned prediction of fracture using history of accidental falls, fracture risk management, and effectiveness of exercise programs, home modification and usage of hip protector. We used "accidental falls" and "fractures" as search strategies. Obtained results were as follows: a) History of falls predicts future hip fracture. b) Exercise programs including balance training have positive effects for fracture prevention. c) Fracture risk evaluation and management reduce the number of hip fractures among elderly population. d) Environmental hazard assessment and necessary home modification are effective in preventing fractures especially among elderly population with the history of falls. e) The hip protector is a beneficial device for the prevention of hip fractures among elderly people at high risk of falling.