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Abstract

OBJECTIVES
We aimed to determine the frequency, risk factors, and predictor of falls in the aged population using the Berg Balance Scale and the Timed up and test.
METHODOLOGY
A cross-sectional study was conducted for 1 year from 2023 to 2024 on 376 subjects selected from outpatient clinics of tertiary hospitals; those above 65 years of age, physically and mentally handicapped subjects were excluded. A thorough history of physical examinations was made, and they were assessed through timed up-and-go tests and the Berg balance scale to screen for fall risk. Non-probability serial sampling technique was used, and the sample size was determined through the openEpi.com sample size calculator by keeping a 95% confidence interval, 5% margin of error and 80 power of test; the calculated sample size was 376. Open epi calculator used following formula Sample size n = [DEFF*Np(1-p)]/ [(d2/Z21-α/2*(N-1) + p*(1-p)].
RESULTSThe frequency of falls in 65 plus older adults in the past 2 years was 20.7% (77) in the study. Fall was seen more in women, 38% (35). Of those who fell, 50 (22.4%) subjects belonged to a low socioeconomic class. The urban dwellers had a fall prevalence of 21.3% (76). Among various comorbidities, Diabetics (68.8%) were more prone to falls. Of all the diabetics who fell, neuropathy was found to be the most frequent complication, 48.9% (23). Visual impairment was a common finding among the fall subjects, 23.1% (74). Muscle relaxant use (81.3%) was the primary reason for falling among all medication-induced falls. The proportion of people who used assisted walking devices was 59.3% (16). Of the subjects who fell, 51.3 % had compromised BBS scores while 15.8% had compromised timed up and test, indicating that BBS score is a better marker of falls in age.
CONCLUSION
These results highlight the importance of targeted fall prevention strategies, particularly for high-risk populations, to mitigate the risk of injury and improve overall mobility and safety.