Abstract
Watabe T, Sako R, Suzuki H, Mano H, Kawate N, Mizuma M. Falls in the sitting position—Characteristics and efficacy of preventive measures—. Jpn J Compr Rehabil Sci 2015; 6: 151-157.
Introduction: In the prevailing definition, falls in the standing position and falls in the sitting position with the buttocks touching the ground or floor are not distinguished from each other. In practice, however, the types of motion that lead to the fall differ between these two types of falls. The present study was undertaken to investigate the characteristics of individuals falling in the sitting position and to evaluate the efficacy of preventive measures taken with such characteristics considered.
Study 1: The characteristics of the individuals experiencing falls in the sitting position were investigated retrospectively. These patients tended to demonstrate retained cognitive function, and the fall often occurred when the individuals attempted to reach for an object at the bedside. On the basis of these findings, measures for prevention of falls (primarily patient education) were attempted.
Study 2: The frequency of falls before the preventive measures were established was compared with that after the measures. The frequency of falls in the standing position did not decrease after these measures, while the frequency of falls in the sitting position decreased to about one-fifth after the measures.
Discussion: The preventive measures taken were useful in preventing falls. In future, it may be necessary to extensively apply measures for preventing specific types of falls.
