Recurrent Falls Among Community-Dwelling Older Koreans: Prevalence and Multivariate Risk Factors

Abstract

Feature Article In-Young Yoo, PhD, RN This study was conducted to determine the risk factors for nonfallers versus fallers (1+ falls) and nonfallers/one-time fallers versus recurrent fallers (2+ falls) using the Resident Assessment Instrument-Home Care (RAI-HC^©). Community-dwelling Koreans 65 and older (N = 411) comprised the sample. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the factors predictive of fallers and recurrent fallers. Eight predictive factors were statistically significant with regard to recurrent falls: unsteady gait, low scores related to performance of activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental ADLs (IADLs), high pain scores, number of housing environmental hazards, use of an assistive device, fear of falling, and reduced vision. Based on the findings, it is important to assess the risk factors for recurrent falls and develop differentiation strategies that help prevent recurrent falls, including management of gait problems, pain control, use of appropriate assistive devices, a fear management program, regular eye examinations, making improvements to ADLs and IADLs, and creating a safer home environment. In addition, using a standardized tool such as the RAI-HC would help assess multivariate fall risk factors to facilitate comparisons across different community care settings. Dr. Yoo is Assistant Professor, Department of Nursing, Jeonju University, Jeonju, Korea. The author discloses that she has no significant financial interests in any product or class of products discussed directly or indirectly in this activity. The author acknowledges financial support from Jeonju University in Korea and thanks the Korean older participants. Address correspondence to In-Young Yoo, PhD, RN, Assistant Professor, Department of Nursing, Jeonju University, 1200, Hyoja-dong 3Ga, Jeonju, 560–759, Korea; e-mail: .yiny@jj.ac.kr 10.3928/00989134-20110503-01 Healio is intended for health care provider use and all comments will be posted at the discretion of the editors. We reserve the right not to post any comments with unsolicited information about medical devices or other products. At no time will Healio be used for medical advice to patients.