Incidence of and Risk Factors for Falls Following Hip Fracture in Community-dwelling Older Adults

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Hip fracture is a major medical problem among older adults, leading to impaired balance and gait and loss of functional independence. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of and risk factors for falls 6 months following hospital discharge for a fall-related hip fracture in older adults. SUBJECTS: Ninety of 100 community-dwelling older adults (> or =65 years of age) hospitalized for a fall-related hip fracture provided data for this study. METHODS: An observational cohort study used interviews and medical records to obtain information on demographics, prefracture health, falls, and functional status. Self-report of falls and performance-based measures of balance and mobility were completed 6 months after discharge. RESULTS: A total of 53.3% of patients (48/90) reported 1 or more falls in the 6 months after hospitalization. Older adults who fell following discharge had greater declines in independence in activities of daily living and lower performance on balance and mobility measures. Prefracture fall history and use of a gait device predicted postdischarge falls. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Falls following hip fracture can be predicted by premorbid functional status.