Journal of Korean Gerontological Nursing 2004;6(2):170-178.

지역사회 재가노인의 낙상 위험요인 사정

박영혜

Abstract

Purpose
This study was done to assess the factors that influence risk of falls in elders who live at home. Method: The factors for risk of falls were divided into intrinsic factors and environmental factors. Data was analyzed by the SPSS/PC+ program, using descriptive statistics. X²-test, t-test, and ANOVA.
Result
51.8% of the respondents had experienced at least one fall. The mean score for intrinsic risk factors was 7.12±4.48 on the RAFS II scale, which has a maximum of 39. The mean score for environmental risk factors was 0.31±0.16 on the scale, which has a maximum of 49. As seen from the dimension of internal risk factors, age, drug intake, chronic diseases, and vision were found to be relatively high risk factors. Seen from the dimension of environmental risk factors, risks were bathroom safety devices, floor finishes, and non-skid rugs in the porch or bathroom.
Conclusion
This study showed that eyesight protection plans for elders, installation of safety devices in the bathrooms, and the utilization of nonskid finishes indoor will contribute to the prevention of injuries from falls.

Key words: 낙상, 위험요인, 노인, fall, risk factor, elderly