Fear of Falling among the Community-Dwelling Elderly

TLDR

To assess the incidence of falls and the prevalence, intensity, and covariates of fear of falling among community‑dwelling elderly. The authors surveyed a random sample of 196 residents (≥58 years) in Brookline and Plymouth, Massachusetts. Forty‑three percent had fallen recently, 28 % in the last year, with 65 % of those falls injuring, 44 % seeking medical care, and 15 % hospitalized; fear of falling was the top fear and was linked to self‑rated health, prior falls, and social interaction effects independent of fall risk.

Abstract

To assess the incidence of falls and the prevalence, intensity, and covariates of fear of falling among community-dwelling elderly, the authors surveyed a random sample of 196 residents (≥ 58 years of age) of housing developments for the elderly in Brookline and Plymouth, Massachusetts. Forty-three percent reported having fallen in recent years, 28% in the last year. Of those who had fallen within the year prior to the interview, 65% reported injury, 44% sought medical attention, and 15% required hospitalization as a consequence of their fall(s). Fear of falling ranked first when compared to other common fears (i.e., fear of robbery, financial fears). Self-rated health status and experience of previous falls were significantly associated with fear of falling. Further analysis suggests that fear of falling may affect social interaction, independent of risks for falling.