Problem Resolution Linked to Lower Falls Rate among Older Adults Living Independently

​Resolution of physical or clinical risk problems may reduce falls rates among community-dwelling older adults, reports a study published April 29, 2016, in BMC Geriatrics. A total of 13,623 older adults living in independent housing in a consortium of continuing care retirement communities and elder housing were assessed at baseline and one year later. Lower falls rates were observed after resolution of physical and clinical problems. All six movement-related physical problems were associated with falls at both baseline and follow-up. For five of the measures—need for help with housework, need for help with stairs, unsteady gait, need for help with shopping, and need for help with meals—those who had the problem at baseline but not at follow-up (i.e., problem resolution) experienced a "sharp" reduction in falls rates.