Influence of caregiver understanding of their capability to perform activities of daily living, disease comprehension, and attitudes on occupational low back pain: a cross-sectional study.

[Purpose] The aim in this study was to evaluate the impact of caregiver understanding of their ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), movement abilities, diseases, and attitudes on the prevalence of occupational low back pain. [Participants and Methods] A cross-sectional survey was conducted of caregivers of older adults living in residential care facilities. Of the 150 questionnaires distributed, 71 were valid. The survey collected data on demographics, low back pain status using a numerical rating scale, and familiarity with ten ADLs and five diseases (stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, fractures, Parkinson's disease, and dementia). [Results] In this study, 52% of the participants reported lower back pain. Significant factors included an understanding of repositioning in ADLs, familiarity with stroke and rheumatoid arthritis, and attitudes toward using patients' residual functions. Participants with limited knowledge of repositioning and stroke, a better understanding of rheumatoid arthritis, and those who did not consider residual function were more prone to lower back pain. [Conclusion] Our findings highlight the importance of enhancing caregiver education on ADL movements and disease specifics, particularly stroke and rheumatoid arthritis, and promoting the use of patients' residual capabilities. Improved training and information sharing among caregivers may reduce the risk of occupational low back pain.

Analysis of fall risk factors and environmental hazards for older adults in Japan: assessing fall situations and locations.

[Purpose] This study aimed to examine falls among older adults in Japanese households and determine the risk associated with each fall location. [Participants and Methods] This study included 99 participants (249 fall events) who received daycare rehabilitation at a nursing care facility. Data on fall circumstances were collected from the medical records and accident reports. The analyzed variables included age, medical status, level of care required, fall history, location, and mode of transportation during the falls. [Results] Falls occurred most commonly in bedrooms. Falls at an entrance were associated with no assistive device (OR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.06-1.80) and 1 history of falls (OR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.03-3.10). Risk factors for falls in bedrooms included Parkinson's disease (OR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.11-1.87), orthopedic disease (OR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.15-3.43), and cane walking (OR: 1.08, 95% CI: 1.33-4.13). Falls in a hallway were associated with no assistive device (OR: 1.75, 95% CI: 1.15-1.91). [Conclusion] Bedrooms and hallways in Japanese households were identified as locations with a high risk of falls. The unique architectural and cultural features of Japanese homes may contribute to this risk. Rehabilitation programs should consider individual fall histories, medical conditions, and differences in mobility.