Determinants of risk of falls among elderly: a systematic study

Abstract

Objective: to identify from a systematic literature review the main risk factors for falls among the elderly. Methods: the search in the databases was performed using the descriptors fall and elderly; were analyzed 51 articles published from 2005 to 2010, expressing on their resumes risk factors for falls in the elderly. Results: the main fall risk factors in the elderly are related to biological, behavioral, environmental and socioeconomic. Other factors identified were the muscle reduction, balance, depression, obstacles in the way, abuse, lack of handrails, crime and the history of falls. Conclusion: this study sought to provide a scientific north, not only to aid in the clinical assessment and, in turn, improve the care provided to those under-risk of falling at different levels of health care, more in any case, has its main focus on context of primary care.