Fall prevention among older adults in KSA: Role of physical therapy

Abstract

Objectives: Falls and fall-related injuries among older adults are a growing public health concern. Although multiple factors and co-morbidities are associated with falls, balance and gait disorders are among the most common causes. Physical therapists have expertise in fall-risk assessment and management. The purpose of this study was to assess the fall prevention services provided by physical therapists to older adults.

Methods: During November and December 2021, an online survey was shared with physical therapists working in various regions in KSA. The survey covered demographic and professional characteristics, knowledge of risk factors, fall prevention practices in older populations, physical therapy departmental preventive services, and barriers to fall prevention.

Results: A total of 289 therapists were included in the analysis. The primary fall risk factors were balance/gait disorders, impaired cognition, sensory/perceptive deficits, and environmental hazards. The most frequent practices were asking about fall history, identifying fall risk factors, and educating patients on prevention strategies. The most frequent preventive services provided were gait training, strength and balance exercises, and fall prevention education. Greater knowledge among physical therapists was significantly associated with several practices and services, but not with demographic and professional characteristics, or service barriers.

Conclusion: Our findings indicated favorable knowledge but suboptimal practices among physical therapists. The identified prevention barriers underscore an urgent need for restructuring services, particularly emphasizing staff and patient education.

Keywords: Fall prevention; Geriatric; KSA; Older adults; Physical therapy.

Figure 1

Causes of falls in older patients, as indicated by physical therapists.

Figure 2

Spearman correlation between physical therapists' knowledge and practices regarding fall prevention in older patients and preventive services provided by the department.