Perez-Ros et al identified risk factors for falls in an older adult who is functionally-independent and community-dwelling. The authors are Universidad Catolica de Valencia San Vicente Martir, Universitat de Valencia, Hospital Clinico Universitario de Valencia and Hospital Universitario de la Ribera in Valencia, Spain.
Patient selection: age >= 70 years, community-dwelling, functionally-independent
Recurrent falls: >= 3 falls over the past 12 months
Risk factors for falls (for model 1):
(1) number of previous falls in the past 12 months
(2) therapy with an alpha-blocker
Risk factors for recurrent falls (for model 2):
(1) body mass index (BMI) >= 30 kg per square meter
(2) history of previous fracture
(3) combined use of benzodiazepines and beta-blockers
Other predictors of falls:
(1) female sex
(2) living alone or with partner
(3) hypotension or hypertension
(4) other comorbidities and/or polypharmacy
(5) hearing and/or vision problems
