Posttraumatic stress disorder in older people after a fall

Abstract

PTSD occurs in a substantial minority of older people post-fall. No pattern emerged of factors predictive of PTSD, although the association between fear of falling and PTSD suggests some patients thought to have fear of falling may be manifesting PTSD, and require identification to enable therapeutic intervention.

Conflicting trends in fall-related injury hospitalisations among older people: variations by injury type

“…At the individual level, a fall can instil a fear of falling [2], raise levels of anxiety and depression [44], result in post-traumatic stress disorder [45] and decrease levels of activity resulting in loss of independence [3]. Any injurious fall can therefore have significant personal and economic consequences for the individual and their family in addition to the overall impact of these injuries on the hospital system.…”

Posttraumatic Stress in Older Adults

“…Although studies vary as to whether age [2][3][4] increases risk for medically induced PTSD, several other factors are consistently associated with increased risk (Box 1). 2,[4][5][6] Box 1…”

“…33 For example, falling is a common problem in older adults, and is associated with subsequent PTSD symptoms and fear of falling. 3 Screening and early intervention in the emergency or hospital setting could potentially prevent the excess morbidity caused by activity restriction, although these outcomes need to be studied.…”

Posttraumatic Stress in Older Adults

“…Although studies vary as to whether age [2][3][4] increases risk for medically induced PTSD, several other factors are consistently associated with increased risk (Box 1). 2,[4][5][6] …”