Saudi Journal of Nursing and Health Care (SJNHC)
Volume-2 | Issue-01 | 1-14
Original Research Article
Risk Factors for fall among Elderly in a Rural Community in El-Monofya Governorate
Ebrahim A Elsamahy, Ebtesam, Moa’wad, ELSayed, Sohier, A, Badr Eldin
Published : Jan. 30, 2019
Abstract
Introduction: The onset of falls is shocking for elderly and their families, extremely affecting elderly quality of life and
taking a severe economic fee. Falls and its consequent injuries are major problems that often require medical attention.
Thus, the aim of the current study was to assess risk factors for fall among elderly in a rural community in El-Monofya
Governorate. Design: A descriptive exploratory research design was utilized in the current study. Setting: the study was
conducted at in a rural community in El-Monofya Governorate, Egypt. Tools: Data were collected through elderly falls
interview schedule which was designed by research investigators based on an extensive literature review. Including two
parts: The first part; includes personnel characteristics of elderly as age, sex, history of fall, level of education, previous
and current occupation, the second part included question about intrinsic as well as extrinsic risk factors of falls. Results:
the study revealed that the mean age of elderly was 73.842± 8.375; meanwhile 35.3% of elderly were exposed to falls
during the last year. Intrinsic risk factors for falls such as chronic conditions ( hypertension, arthritis, asthma,
osteoporosis, anemia, renal failure, liver diseases, cardiac problems, cerebrovascular stroke, leg fracture affecting
mobility, Alzheimer, and Parkinson’s) were reported by 76.8%, 68.4%, 28.3%, 23.9%, 14.3%, 28.7%, 27.9%, 7.4%,
7%, 4%, 4.4% and 2.6% of elderly respectively. A statistical significance relationship was found between incidence of
falls during the last year and computed intrinsic risk factor for falls such as (chronic diseases, poly-pharmacy, stability
and movement, vision problems, hearing problems, muscle strength, cardiac problems, orthostatic hypotension, foot and
foot wear and fear of falls) at p=0.000. Conclusion: the study highlights falls risk factors which can help in fall
prevention program. Recommendations: further researches are needed to identify preventive measures for falls. Raise
awareness of elderly and care giver regarding falls and its sequences through health education programs and mass media.