Citation

Robinovitch S. Handb. Clin. Neurol. 2018; 159: 147-154.

Affiliation

Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada. Electronic address: stever@sfu.ca.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/B978-0-444-63916-5.00009-4

PMID

30482311

Abstract

In this chapter, we consider how falls result from interactions between humans and their environment, and the implications of these interactions on the prevention of falls and fall-related injuries. We take a lifespan approach, and examine the human behaviors that create risk for falls and injuries in various environments, and the social and biologic factors that shape those behaviors. While not always stated explicitly, we draw on our experience in collecting and analyzing video footage of hundreds of falls. We consider that most falls do not result in significant injury, and issues of self-autonomy for pursuing a lifestyle that may create risk for falls. To help guide falls management, we propose a mechanism for classifying falls as "acceptable" versus "unacceptable." We also provide an ecology of falls checklist to guide stakeholders in identifying ecologic aspects of falls that may be useful targets for intervention.

Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Language: en

Keywords

behavior; falls; injuries; injury prevention; risk taking