Profile of Falls Among Older People at High Risk of Falls With and Without Cognitive Impairment

Introduction: Falls are frequent events among older adults, especially those at high risk, and can lead to injuries and functional impact. Cognitive impairment is recognized as a potential aggravating factor, but its role in the characteristics of falls is not yet fully understood. The purpose of this study was to describe and compare the profile of falls among older adults at high risk of falls, with and without cognitive impairment.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with 118 older adults at high risk of falls from the community, divided into a group with cognitive impairment (CIG, n=63) and a group without cognitive impairment (wCIG, n=55). Number of falls in the last year, the location of the last fall, and the most serious consequences were collected. The groups were compared using non-parametric tests, adopting p<0.05.

Results: The mean number of falls in the last year was similar between the groups (CIG: 2.98±2.77; wCIG: 2.71±1.52; p=0.960). There were no significant differences between groups regarding the location of the fall (p=0.187) or the severity of the consequences (p=0.951). The most common locations for the last fall were the bed (20.3%), followed by the roof (14.4%) and standing height (11.9%). The most frequent consequences were injuries requiring stitches (36%) and abrasions (15.8%).

Conclusion: The profile of falls among older individuals at high falls risk is similar between those with and without cognitive impairment. Regardless of cognitive performance, falls occur more frequently in the home environment. These findings reinforce the importance of preventive strategies focused on the home environment and the management of multiple risk factors common to both groups. FAPESP (2024/10699-6), CNPq (408323/2024-8), CAPES (001).