Falls and Old Age: Results from a Qualitative Study Carried out in a rural area of Turkey

YAZICI S., Karakuş S.

11 EUGMS, Oslo, Norway, 16 - 18 September 2015, vol.Suppl 1, no.6, pp.192, (Full Text)

  • Publication Type: Conference Paper / Full Text
  • Volume: Suppl 1
  • City: Oslo
  • Country: Norway
  • Page Numbers: pp.192
  • Akdeniz University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Falls and Old Age: Results from a Qualitative Study carried out in a rural area of Turkey.

 

Objectives: Falls are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in old age. It is possible to decrease the rate of accidents and falls by home modifications and individual education. Rural areas are often deprived from resources.  The aim of this study is to evaluate rural houses regarding the risk of falls and home accidents, to identify the risky areas at home and to advise recommendations of home adaptation.

Methods: Qualitative methodology has been used. 15 interviews have been done in Adıyaman, Gölbaşı district. The Ergonomic Evaluation form has been used to evaluate the houses. The fall history has been taken. Interviews were audio-taped and pictures were taken. The elderly have been informed about risky areas at their homes and advises were given.

Results: The majority of the houses had major fall-risky areas and was not suitable concerning the physical limitations of the elderly. The stairs have been found as the main place of previous falls. Some participants experienced multiple falls at the same location however didn’t do any change to prevent future falls.

Conclusion: Building a safe environment in old age is crucial for the prevention of falls and for an independent life. The older people living in rural areas often lack of resources available for in-home adaptations.  Resources need to be allocated to rural areas in order to support aging in place.