Fall prevention in neurological diseases : a doctor's opinion

Abstract

Falling is more frequent in patients with neurological diseases than in older persons residing in the community. Patients with neurological diseases have many factors that contribute to falls, such as palsy, postural instability, and cognitive impairment.

To prevent falls in patients with neurological diseases, multifactorial fall risk assessment should be considered. Interventions include modification of the environment, withdrawal of potential drugs causing a fall, and exercise. It is important that patients and care givers actively participate in fall prevention. Team approach is indispensable for fall prevention in neurological patients. Multifactorial and multicomponent interventions with multidisciplinary staff should be considered.