Citation

Al-Aama T. Can. Fam. Physician 2011; 57(7): 771-776.

Affiliation

Parkwood Hospital, St Joseph's Health Care, 801 Commissioners Rd E, London, ON N6C 5J1; e-mail tareef.alaama@sjhc.london.on.ca.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, College of Family Physicians of Canada)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

21753098

PMCID

PMC3135440

Abstract

Objective To provide family physicians with a practical, evidence-based approach to fall prevention in the elderly. Sources of information MEDLINE was searched using terms relevant to falls among the elderly in the community and in institutions. Relevant English-language papers published from 1980 to July 2010 were reviewed. Relevant geriatric society guidelines were reviewed as well. Main message Falls are a common and serious health problem with devastating consequences. Several risk factors have been identified in the literature. Falls can be prevented through several evidence-based interventions, which can be either single or multicomponent interventions. Identifying at-risk patients is the most important part of management, as applying preventive measures in this vulnerable population can have a profound effect on public health. Conclusion Family physicians have a pivotal role in screening older patients for risk of falls, and applying preventive strategies for patients at risk.

Language: en