Prevalence of Falls in the Elderly in India and Western Maharashtra
The prevalence of falls among elderly in India ranges from 25% to 37%, with indoor falls accounting for 65% of incidents, and these falls significantly contribute to hospital admissions due to resulting injuries that affect approximately 61% of fallers. 1
Prevalence of Falls in India
- In India, falls among the elderly population show a prevalence rate of 24.98% according to a descriptive study conducted in Maharashtra (Mumbai, Panvel, and Thane cities) 1
- Other studies across various regions of India report fall prevalence ranging from 26% to 37% 2
- Fall-related injuries specifically were reported in 3.6% of older adults in a cross-sectional study across seven major Indian states 3
Fall Patterns in Western Maharashtra
- In Western Maharashtra (Mumbai, Panvel, and Thane), 65.43% of falls occurred indoors, with 44.92% occurring during morning hours 1
- 56.45% of falls in this region were reported as slips 1
- 60.55% of elderly who fell sustained injuries, highlighting the significant injury burden 1
Hospital Admissions Due to Falls
- Falls account for 40% of all injury deaths globally, with the highest death rates among those 60 years and above 4
- In the geriatric population, falls are the leading cause of non-fatal injuries and hospital admissions 4
- Among elderly fallers in Western Maharashtra, 23.67% reported reduced functional activities following falls, and 18.06% demonstrated affected activities of daily living, often necessitating medical intervention 1
Risk Factors for Falls Leading to Hospital Admissions
Demographic Risk Factors
- Female gender is associated with 98% higher likelihood of fall-related injuries 3
- Age, education level, marital status, and socioeconomic status show significant association with falls 1
Physical Health Factors
- Walking difficulties increase the likelihood of fall-related injuries by 80% 3
- Poor self-rated health increases fall risk by 24% 3
- Visual impairment, hearing impairment, and osteoarthritis are significant contributors to falls 2
Behavioral and Psychological Factors
- Fear of falling (FOF) affects 34.70% of fallers in Western Maharashtra 1 and 33.2% in urban Karnataka 5
- Alcohol consumption increases fall-related injury risk by 97% 3
- Dementia doubles the risk (2.15 times) of fall-related injuries 3
- Depression is significantly associated with fear of falling 5
Impact on Quality of Life
- Fear of falling compromises quality of life by limiting mobility, diminishing sense of well-being, and reducing social interactions 5
- 23.67% of fallers report reduced functional activities, indicating significant impact on independence 1
- Falls represent a significant threat to socialization, independence, and contribute to morbidity and mortality among the elderly 5