Citation

Russell K, Taing D, Roy J. Can. J. Aging 2017; 36(4): 522-535.

Affiliation

Ottawa Public Health.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Cambridge Press)

DOI

10.1017/S0714980817000332

PMID

28903796

Abstract

This study surveyed awareness of, and adherence to, six national fall prevention recommendations among community-dwelling older adults (n = 1050) in Ottawa. Although 76 per cent of respondents agreed falling is a concern and preventable, fewer perceived susceptibility to falling (63%). Respondents had high awareness that home modifications and physical activity can prevent falls. Reported modifications included grab bars (50%), night lights (44%), and raised toilet seats (19%). Half met aerobic activity recommendations; 38 per cent met strength recommendations. Respondents had lower awareness that an annual medication review, annual eye and physical examination, and daily vitamin D supplementation could reduce fall risk. However, reported annual medication review (79%) and eye examination (75%) was high. Nearly half met recommendations for vitamin D intake. These findings suggest a gap in knowledge of awareness and adherence to national recommendations, highlighting the ones that may require attention from those who work to prevent falls.

Language: en

Keywords

aging; awareness; community dwelling; fall prevention; prévention des chutes; public health; santé publique; sensibilisation; vieillissement; vivant dans la communauté