Clinical Profile of fall in Elderly

Abstract

India is in a phase of demographic transition. The geriatric population becomes the major area of concern in their health. In elderly, falls result in fracture, disabilities and cause long term illness and mortality. The objective is to study falls in elderly, risk factors, consequences, co-morbid conditions and outcome. Total of 50 patients above 60 years, irrespective of sex with the history of fall admitted, are included in the study conducted for one year duration. Among 50 patients, 28 (56%) are females and 22 (44%) males, of them 68% lie between the age group of 60-74. Hypertension is commonest co-morbidity observed. Repeated history of falls in past is seen in 12% of study group. The common fracture noted is fracture of the femur in 42%, fracture of radius in 20%. Surgical treatment done in 28(56%) patients, 14(28%) managed conservatively. It is observed that females and age group between 60-74years are more at risk of falls in elderly. Falls are directly related to the comorbidities and are prone for repeated falls. Fracture of femur is commonly affected in falls related injuries. Hence awareness regarding preventive measures & proper follow up is necessary