Falls in the elderly: spectrum and prevention

To provide family physicians with a practical, evidence-based approach to fall prevention in the elderly.

MEDLINE was searched using terms relevant to falls among the elderly in the community and in institutions. Relevant English-language papers published from 1980 to July 2010 were reviewed. Relevant geriatric society guidelines were reviewed as well.

Falls are a common and serious health problem with devastating consequences. Several risk factors have been identified in the literature. Falls can be prevented through several evidence-based interventions, which can be either single or multicomponent interventions. Identifying at-risk patients is the most important part of management, as applying preventive measures in this vulnerable population can have a profound effect on public health.

Family physicians have a pivotal role in screening older patients for risk of falls, and applying preventive strategies for patients at risk.