Association between benzodiazepines and recurrent falls: a cross-sectional elderly population-based study.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Pharmacology
• Public Health

Background:

• The association between benzodiazepines (BZD) and single falls is established.
• However, the link between BZD use and recurrent falls in older adults remains understudied.
• This research addresses the gap in understanding BZD's role in repeated falls.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between benzodiazepine use and recurrent falls in community-dwelling older adults.
• To identify potential confounding factors influencing the relationship between BZD and falls.
• To examine the interaction between BZD use and balance impairment on fall risk.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study involving 7643 community-dwelling adults aged 65 and older.
• Data collected on benzodiazepine use, cognitive function (MMSE, CDT), and balance (OLB, FTSS).
• Participants categorized by fall history (0, 1, 2, or ≥3 falls).

Main Results:

• Recurrent falls (≥3 falls) were significantly associated with older age, female gender, and benzodiazepine use.
• Specific BZDs, including clobazam and prazepam, showed a strong association with recurrent falls.
• Impaired balance (low One Leg Balance test score) was a significant predictor of recurrent falls.

Conclusions:

• Age, female gender, use of clobazam or prazepam, and impaired balance are key factors associated with recurrent falls in older adults.
• Findings underscore the importance of considering BZD use in fall risk assessments for the elderly.
• Further research into medication management for fall prevention in this demographic is warranted.