Citation

Cox CR, Clemson L, Stancliffe RJ, Durvasula S, Sherrington C. J. Intellect. Disabil. Res. 2010; 54(12): 1045-1057.

Affiliation

Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Lidcombe, New South Wales, Australia Centre for Disability Studies, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Ryde, New South Wales, Australia The George Institute for Global Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2010, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/j.1365-2788.2010.01333.x

PMID

21105935

Abstract

Background  Falls among people with intellectual disability (ID) occur at a younger age than the general population and are a significant cause of injury and hospitalisation. There is very limited research investigating risk factors for falls among people with ID and none with people living outside of formal care arrangements, either independently or with their family. We used a medical chart audit to identify the incidence and risk factors for falls among people with ID living in a variety of settings. Methods  We retrospectively identified 114 consecutive patients, aged 18 years and over who attended a clinic for people with developmental disabilities within a 15-month period. Fall information was measured by carer recall of falls in the past 12 months. Potential risk factors were extracted from medical reports and a patient information questionnaire. Potential predictors were identified using univariate analysis and entered into a multiple logistic regression. Results  Of 114 participants, 39 (34%) reported a fall in the previous 12 months. The number of reported falls was similar for formal care and non-formal care arrangements. The vast majority of fallers (84%) reported sustaining an injury from a fall and many potential risk factors were identified. Multivariate analysis revealed having seizures in the past 5 years, a history of fracture and increasing age were risk factors for falls. Conclusions  Falls are a significant health concern for adults with ID of all ages as a result of their incidence and the resulting injuries. Falls appear to be equally an issue for people residing in formal and non-formal care accommodation. Further research is needed to develop screening tools and interventions for this population.

Language: en