Objective: Falls are a major cause of morbidity and mortality among older adults worldwide, highlighting the need to identify fall risk factors, particularly among nursing home residents. This study aimed to evaluate fall risk factors according to fall history in nursing home–dwelling geriatric individuals and to examine the association between these factors and the number of falls.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included geriatric individuals living in nursing homes who were classified as fallers (n=54) or non-fallers (n=66). Participants’ demographic characteristics and fall-related risk factors were recorded. Comorbidity was assessed using the Charlson Comorbidity Index. Physical performance was evaluated using gait speed, the 5-Repetition Sit-to-Stand Test, and handgrip strength. Physical activity level was assessed using the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly. Sarcopenia risk was evaluated using the SARC-F questionnaire. Nutritional status was assessed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment. Incontinence severity was evaluated using the Incontinence Severity Index, and activities of daily living (ADL) were assessed using the Katz Index of ADL.
Results: Fallers were older, used more medications, had a greater comorbidity burden, and demonstrated poorer physical performance and lower activity levels, a higher risk of sarcopenia, poorer nutritional status, greater incontinence severity, and reduced independence in ADL. Furthermore, fall frequency was significantly associated with assistive device use, gait speed, and nutritional status (p<0.05).
Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that multifactorial, targeted interventions addressing physical performance, mobility, and nutrition are essential for reducing fall risk and recurrent falls in geriatric individuals.