17. Falls among older outpatients: prevalence, characteristics and consequences after falls

Ha Thi Van Anh, Nguyen Ngoc Tam, Nguyen Thi Hoai Thu, Pham Thang, Vu Thi Thanh Huyen

Main Article Content

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the incidence, and factors associated with falls and physical consequences among older outpatients. A prospective study  for 3 years from 03/2018 to 3/2021 was conducted in 636 outpatients aged 60 or older at the National Geriatric Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam. Results: 226 participants (35.5%) fell during the 1 year period. The majority of falls occurred indoors, mainly in the bedrooms (61.1%) and bathrooms (41.6%); Falls most often were caused by slips (52.2%). Risk factors associated with increased risk of falls were age 80 years and older (OR = 2.9), history of falls (OR = 2.0),  and taking psychotropic medications (OR = 1.7). After falls, injury is reported in 44.2% of cases in which, 32 patients (14.2%) had a fracture, 23 people (10.2%) were immobilized.  one patient died. I Thenjury severity generally tended to be worse in women and people aged ≥ 80 years. The high rates of falls and fall-related injuries imply that older outpatients need proper attention,  and a safe living environment suitable for the elderly is necessary to reduce falls and injuries.

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