Citation

Glynn RJ, Seddon JM, Krug JH, Sahagian CR, Chiavelli ME, Campion EW. Arch. Ophthalmol. (1960) 1991; 109(2): 205-210.

Affiliation

Epidemiology Unit, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston 02114.

Comment In:

Arch Ophthalmol 1992;110(2):169-70.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1991, American Medical Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

1993029

Abstract

We analyzed the determinants of serious falls among 489 ambulatory elders aged 65 years and older who received a comprehensive examination at a glaucoma consultation service. For the previous year, at least one fall requiring medical attention or restricted activity was reported by 9.6% (95% confidence interval CI., 7.0% to 12.2%) of participants. Using logistic regression to adjust for potential confounding variables, the greatest single risk factor for falls was the use of nonmiotic topical eye medications (odds ratio OR., 5.4; 95% Cl, 1.8 to 16.4). Additional risk factors for falls were female sex (OR, 2.3; 95% Cl, 1.1 to 4.7) and use of cardiac medications (OR, 2.5; 95% Cl, 1.1 to 5.6). Three other characteristics were also associated with the risk of falls: use of miotic eye medications (OR, 3.2; 95% Cl, 1.0 to 10.1); visual field impairment of 40% or greater (OR, 3.0; 95% Cl, 0.94 to 9.8); and use of sedatives (OR, 2.4; 95% Cl, 0.89 to 6.7). These findings suggest that ocular and systemic medications are the major predictors of falls even in this elderly population seeking ophthalmologic care for glaucoma. Medications appear to pose a greater risk for falls than even major visual impairment.

Language: en