T/SRMA 1-2018 Preventing falls in the elderly: Basic requirements for intervention

Scope

Main Technical Content: 4  Basic Requirements for Fall Prevention Interventions 4.1 Fall Risk Assessment To improve the efficiency of fall risk assessment for the elderly, it is necessary to first conduct an initial screening of the elderly population for fall risk. After confirming the presence of high fall risk, a multi-factorial risk assessment should be conducted based on both internal and external risk factors. 4.1.1 Regular initial screening of fall risk should be conducted every six months. If the elderly answer yes to any of the following questions, it can be confirmed that they are at high fall risk. The screening should be conducted by asking the elderly the following questions: a) Have you fallen in the past year? b) Do you have balance disorders or gait abnormalities, such as stepping on empty space or tripping when going up or down stairs, or feeling like you're walking on cotton? c) Have you sought medical treatment or emergency care due to a fall? 4.1.2 For elderly individuals at high fall risk, a multi-factorial risk assessment should be conducted to identify specific issues. The assessment should include the following: a) Fall history; b) Medication history; c) Disease history; d) Vision; e) Cognitive function; f) Muscle strength and muscle tone; g) Balance and gait function; h) Psychological function; i) Activities of daily living; j) Ability to use assistive devices; k) Surrounding environment; l) Social support. 4.2 Fall Prevention Interventions After identifying specific issues through a multi-factorial risk assessment, targeted fall prevention intervention strategies should be developed and implemented. 4.2.1 Elderly individuals should be encouraged and guided to participate in activities aimed at enhancing balance function and muscle strength, with a focus on proprioception. The exercises should include warm-up and cool-down activities. The exercise intensity can be maintained at 3-5 times per week

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