Evaluating Multidisciplinary Fall Prevention Strategies in Older Adults

Authors: Duha H. Al-harbi, Sarah A. Alafari, Brooj S. Alenezi, Fawzia H. Alkhazaal, Nourah M. Alorainy, Abeer M. Alharbi, Qamara S. Alsolmi, Ashwaq A. Alshehri, Haifa M. Alanazi

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14382197

Short DOI: https://doi.org/g8vbfw

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Background: Falls are a leading cause of injury and reduced quality of life among older adults. Multidisciplinary interventions involving nurses, physiotherapists, and psychologists offer a holistic approach to mitigating fall risks.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary fall prevention program in reducing falls and improving functional outcomes among older adults in a tertiary hospital.

Methods: A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest study was conducted with 100 older adults aged 65 years and above. Interventions included fall risk assessments, individualized exercise programs, and psychological support. Outcomes were assessed using fall incidence, Timed Up and Go (TUG), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I), and Barthel Index.

Results: Fall incidence decreased significantly from 58% pre-intervention to 18% post-intervention (p<0.001). Participants showed significant improvements in TUG (22.8 ± 5.2 to 17.2 ± 4.1 seconds, p<0.001), BBS (38.6 ± 7.4 to 47.8 ± 6.2, p<0.001), FES-I (32.5 ± 6.9 to 24.3 ± 5.6, p<0.001), and Barthel Index (78.4 ± 12.2 to 91.2 ± 8.7, p<0.001).

Conclusion: The multidisciplinary fall prevention program effectively reduced fall risks and enhanced physical and psychological outcomes. This approach demonstrates the value of collaborative care in improving safety and independence among older adults.

Keywords: Falls, Older Adults, Multidisciplinary Care, Fall Prevention, Functional Outcomes, Tertiary Hospital.

Paper Id: 231812

Published On: 2024-01-08

Published In: Volume 12, Issue 1, January-February 2024

Cite This: Evaluating Multidisciplinary Fall Prevention Strategies in Older Adults - Duha H. Al-harbi, Sarah A. Alafari, Brooj S. Alenezi, Fawzia H. Alkhazaal, Nourah M. Alorainy, Abeer M. Alharbi, Qamara S. Alsolmi, Ashwaq A. Alshehri, Haifa M. Alanazi - IJIRMPS Volume 12, Issue 1, January-February 2024. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.14382197

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