Situational and environmental risk factors associated with home falls among community-dwelling older adults: Visualization of disparities between actual and perceived risks

Abstract

Since most falls among older adults occur at home, it is essential to identify the situational and environmental risk factors for reducing such falls. This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with home falls among community-dwelling older adults and compare the actual risk factors with those perceived by older adults. We conducted a home-visit survey that included open-ended and short-answer questions about perceived situational and environmental risk factors associated with home falls among 104 older adults who had fallen at home in the last two years. The findings highlighted significant gaps in older adults' risk perception, particularly in home locations such as bedrooms. Moreover, the risks associated with footwear and specific times or movements during falls were underestimated. Given the discrepancy between perceived and actual risks, a personalized approach to fall prevention is necessary, considering the individual's environment, behaviors, and perceptions.