Frailty and Fall Risk in Older Adults at Physical Therapy Care Centers

Guerra G.C.; Fabian Flores F.G.; Soto Hilario J.D. · Revista Cubana de Investigaciones Biomedicas (2024)

Resumen

Introduction: The susceptibility and risk of falls among older adults are becoming increasingly important topics in Physical Therapy centers, due to the marked tendency of this age group to experience severe adverse repercussions. Objective: To determine the relationship between frailty and the risk of falls in older adults attended in physical therapy centers in the Surquillo (Lima-Peru) district in 2023. Methods: This research adopted a quantitative correlational approach, analyzing frailty and fall risk in 85 older adults in physical therapy centers. Two validated instruments were used: the Frailty Scale and the Downton Fall Risk Scale. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software v28, conducting descriptive and inferential analyses, including Kendall's Tau correlations, and ensuring ethics and confidentiality at all times. Results: A significant 75.3% of participants had experienced previous falls, while 92.9% were taking medications. Additionally, 96.5% presented with sensorimotor deficits. The distribution of fall risk showed that 35.3% of individuals were at low risk, 60% at medium risk, and 4.7% at high risk. Regarding frailty, 21.2% reported it, and 64.7% demonstrated resilience. Conclusions: By implementing strategies focused on improving physical resistance and managing fatigability, it is possible to significantly reduce the risk of falls, thereby improving the quality of life and promoting the independence of older adults.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Hermilio Valdizán; Universidad Privada Norbert Wiener