Citation

Feldman F, Chaudhury H. Can. J. Occup. Ther. 2008; 75(2): 82-95.

Affiliation

School of Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada. ffeldman@sfu.ca

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

18510252

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Fall-related injuries result in significant physical and psychological suffering to the affected individuals. The physical environment is considered to have an important role in falls. PURPOSE: To conduct extensive review of and synthesize related literature, and to develop a conceptual framework to explain the relationship among falls, the physical environment, and older adults. METHODS: Review of the literature was conducted to examine: (a) link between environmental hazards and falls, (b) efficacy of home-modification interventions, and (c) role of the physical environment in falls of people with cognitive impairment. RESULTS: A strong link between environmental hazards and the risk of falls has yet to be established. A conceptual framework is presented that proposes that an individual's risk for falls can be determined by the interaction of three main factors: mobility, risk-taking behaviour, and physical environment. IMPLICATIONS: Environmental interventions should be combined with other interventions such as exercise programs and education.

Language: en