Overview of features and prevention of falls in older patients with neurological disorders

Abstract

Factors that contribute to falls are divided into three major categories : physical, behavioral, and environmental factors. Physical variables in patients with neurological illnesses include paralysis, postural instability, and sensory disturbance. Geriatric syndrome, such as sarcopenia/frailty, osteoporosis, poor nutrition, and cognitive impairment, as well as comorbidities, enhance the risk of falls in the elderly. To prevent falls in elderly patients with neurological diseases, these issues must be addressed. A suitable environment should be created by keeping the characteristics of each neurological condition in mind, which includes using the toilet before the urge to urinate and proper placement of things to ensure that they do not fall. It is essential to establish fall prevention strategies with the involvement of patients and their families and to actively communicate these strategies to patients. We should intervene in a multidisciplinary and multifaceted manner, and make the intervention enjoyable for both patients and medical staff. It is also vital to consider the causes and mechanisms of falls, and to avoid falls that can be prevented as much as possible.