Researchers Analyze Falls Captured on Video to Inform Prevention Efforts
January 9, 2013 | Strategic Insights for Health System
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Incorrect transferring or shifting of body weight is the most common cause of falls among older adults living in long-term care facilities, according to the results of a study published in the January 5, 2013, issue of theLancet. The researchers used video cameras to capture falls in real time at two Canadian long-term care facilities from April 2007 to June 2010. Of the 227 falls captured, 41% were associated with incorrect weight shifting, 21% were related to tripping or stumbling, and 11% were caused by being hit or bumped. The activities associated with the highest proportion of falls were forward walking (24%), standing quietly (13%), and sitting down (12%).