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Managing risk and exerting control: determining follow through with falls prevention
L Clemson1, A Cusick, C Fozzard
1School of Occupation & Leisure Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia. L.Clemson@cchs.usyd.edu.au
Disability and Rehabilitation
|December 23, 1999
Summary
Older women’s decisions about home safety modifications were driven by their desire to exert control. Understanding this phenomenon is key for health professionals aiming to reduce fall risks in the home.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Environmental Health
- Occupational Therapy
Background:
- Home fall prevention strategies often include environmental modifications.
- Older adults may not implement recommended home modifications.
- Understanding client perspectives is crucial for effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the perspectives of older women regarding their non-adherence to environmental modification recommendations for fall risk reduction.
- To understand the decision-making process influencing the adoption of home safety modifications.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study utilizing in-depth interviews.
- Nine older women who had not implemented fall prevention recommendations were interviewed.
Main Results:
- A core concept of 'exerting control' emerged, explaining women's decisions about modifications.
- 'Exerting control' involved behavioral, cognitive, and affective processes related to risk perception and decision-making freedom.
- Women made daily choices impacting home fall risk, balancing safety with autonomy.
Conclusions:
- Health professionals should recognize and engage with the concept of 'exerting control' when working with clients.
- Interventions to reduce environmental hazards must consider clients' sense of control and decision-making processes.
- Tailoring recommendations to align with women's perceived control may improve adherence to fall prevention strategies.