An Occupational Therapy Perspective on Falls Prevention among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Abstract

It revealed that there are only a few brief examples of the relationship between occupation and falls in the literature. The profession of occupational therapy appears to be underrepresented in the current falls prevention literature. The review highlights the important contributions that occupational therapists could make to this functional problem. PRACTICE AND RESEARCH IMPLICATIONS: For occupational therapy, important areas for consideration when attempting to prevent falls among older adults living in the community include using a client-centred approach, compliance, and follow up on recommendations. There is a need for more occupational therapy research specifically on occupation and falls, that explores their relationship and influence upon one another.

Evidence for Startle Effects due to Externally Induced Lower Limb Movements: Implications in Neurorehabilitation

“…A sudden unexpected kinematic stimulus while performing other tasks (e.g., walking on a slippery surface) may elicit an undesired motor response, which, if not adequately counteracted, may contribute to a fall [5–9]. In the clinical setting this is of interest as fast passive movements elicited by an examiner or an electromechanical apparatus may trigger both reflexive and voluntary responses [10–17].…”

Fall scenarios In causing older women's hip fractures

“…This has resulted in fall prevention being recommended by a large number of researchers (21,(35)(36)(37) and most frequently in three important areas: to increase physical health, for example balance and muscle strength; the investigation of fall risks in the home environment; and a review of the use of drugs among older adults. Furthermore, it has been stressed that all of the risk factors need to be given attention by healthcare workers, and this should include both conditions in the environment and person-related circumstances (1,(38)(39)(40).…”

The Effect of Lighting on Performance of Tasks Requiring Near Vision in Older Adults

“…Lighting is an environmental feature with important implications for safety and function (Barbur & Konstantakopoulou, 2012;Barstow, Bennett, & Vogtle, 2011;Chu, Kaldenberg, & Huefner, 2009;Kuyk & Elliott, 1999;Paul & Liu, 2012;Reed, Lowrey, & Vallis, 2006;Stevens, 2005;Stevens, Holman, & Bennett, 2001;Tideiskaar, 2003;Van Bemmel, Vandenbroucke, Westendorp, & Gussekloo, 2005;Woodland & Hobson, 2003;Wyman et al 2007). Visual performance worsens at lower ambient lighting levels and can be encumbering for older adults (Barbur & Konstantakopoulou, 2012).…”