Prevalence of falls among community-dwelling elderly and its associated factors: A cross-sectional study in Perak, Malaysia
- Author:
Yeong UY
;
Tan SY
;
Yap JF
;
Choo WY
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
elderly;
falls;
Malaysia;
older people;
risk factors
- From:Malaysian Family Physician
2016;11(1):7-14
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Abstract
Introduction: Fall is a major cause of injuries and can increase the risk of early mortality
among elderly. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of falls among
community-dwelling elderly in rural Malaysia and its associated factors.
Methods: Data were obtained from a cross-sectional survey in five randomly selected districts
in the state of Perak, Malaysia. A total of 250 households were randomly selected. A total of
811 individuals aged 60 years or more were recruited and interviewed using a structured
questionnaire. Information about socio-demographic, history of falls in the past 1 year, medical
history, drug history and physical activity level were enquired.
Results: The prevalence of falls in the past 1 year among community-dwelling elderly was reported to
be 4.07%. Indigenous elderly (Adjusted odd ratio, AOR = 6.06, 95% CI = 1.10–33.55, p = 0.039)
and living alone (AOR = 2.60, 95% CI = 1.04–6.50, p = 0.042) were shown to be factors associated
with falls. Physical activity level, number of co-morbidities and number of medications used were not
associated with falls.
Conclusion: Elderly of indigenous ethnicity and living alone are the main factors associated
with falls in this population. Indigenous people may be at higher risk, which warrant further
investigation with a larger sample to improve the precision of estimates.
- Full text:P020170106531764812333.pdf
