Factors associated with unrecovered falls among older adults.

This cross-sectional exploratory study investigated factors associated with unrecovered falls among older patients with a history of falls in the previous year participating in a clinical trial on fall prevention by asking them about their inability to get up independently after the fall. Participants' sociodemographic, clinical, functional (ADL/IADL, TUG, chair-stand test, hand grip, risk of falling) and fall location were investigated. We conducted a multivariate regression analysis adjusted for covariates to identify the main factors associated with unrecovered falls. Out of 715 participants (mean age: 73.4 years; 86% women), 51.6% (95% IC; 47.9 - 55.3%) experienced unrecovered falls. Depressive symptoms, ADL/IADL limitation, mobility limitation, undernutrition, and outdoor falls were associated with unrecovered falls. While assessing the risk of falling, professionals should consider preventive strategies and preparedness procedures for those who are more likely to experience unrecovered falls, such as training to get up from the floor, alarms, and support services.

Are foot deformity and plantar sensitivity impairment associated with physical function of community-dwelling older adults?

BACKGROUND: Foot deformities are highly prevalent in older adults and negatively impact their mobility and quality of life. However, the association between foot problems and physical function is still unclear. OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether structural foot deformities and plantar tactile sensitivity are associated with lower extremity physical function impairment in community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: We included 200 men and women aged 60 years and older from a community-based program. The foot assessment included toe deformities and calluses inspection and evaluation of plantar tactile sensitivity using monofilaments. The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) was used to assess lower extremity physical function. We conducted a multivariate logistic regression analysis to investigate the association between foot problems and lower extremity physical function. RESULTS: Hallux valgus was the most prevalent deformity among older adults. Those participants with reduced plantar tactile sensitivity (OR= 2.77; 95% CI: 1.38, 5.55) and a hallux valgus (OR= 2.23; 95% CI: 1.10, 4.52) were more likely to present poor lower extremity physical function. CONCLUSION: Hallux valgus and impaired plantar sensitivity were associated with reduced lower extremity physical function in older adults. Further studies are necessary to identify this causality and to what extent management of these foot problems can improve general mobility and quality of life of older adults.