Falls Prevention Interventions for Older Adults
A systematic review and meta-analysis.
This comprehensive study examines fall prevention interventions for community-dwelling older adults, aiming to inform healthcare recommendations and improve seniors' quality of life.
PMID: 39593159
Falls are a significant health concern for older adults, affecting 20-30% of those aged 65 and above annually. This study conducted systematic reviews to evaluate fall prevention interventions, their effectiveness, and patient preferences.
Key Points
The research focused on community-dwelling adults aged 65 and older
It examined non-pharmacological interventions relevant to primary care
The study included 290 studies across multiple reviews, with 219 trials involving 167,864 participants
Aim
The primary goal was to inform recommendations by the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care regarding fall prevention interventions.
Methods
The researchers conducted three systematic reviews addressing:
Benefits and harms of interventions
Patient valuation of potential outcomes
Patient preferences for different interventions
They used network meta-analysis to compare various interventions and assessed the certainty of evidence using established methods.
Results
Effective Interventions:
Supervised, long-duration balance/resistance exercises
Group Tai Chi
Whole-body vibration
High-intensity education or cognitive-behavioural therapy
Comprehensive multifactorial assessment with targeted treatment
Patient Preferences:
Balance and resistance training was preferred over other forms of exercise
Individual delivery was preferred over group delivery for balance/resistance programs
Exercise programs were generally preferred over education
Outcome Valuation:
Long-term care admission had the highest negative impact on quality of life
Fall-related fractures had substantial negative effects, especially in the first three months
