Ethnicity predicts falls among community-dwelling older adults in Singapore

The present study examined whether ethnicity independently predicted future falls among community-dwelling older Singaporeans, and whether ethnicity moderated the relationships between falls risk factors at baseline and falls at follow up.

Data from a longitudinal survey of older Singaporeans were used. Baseline assessment included handgrip strength, global cognitive function, mobility difficulties, health and psychosocial status. One-year retrospective falls information at follow up was the primary outcome.

Final analysis included 1975 participants (mean age 73.6 ± 6.2 years, 53% women). Indians, followed by Malays, had a higher risk of falling compared with Chinese at follow up. This association remained after controlling for falls risk factors. Self-reported pain and poor global cognitive function imposed a substantial increment in the risk of falling among Malays compared with Chinese, but not Indians.

Ethnicity was a significant predictor of future falls among older Singaporeans. Falls screening and intervention should take ethnicity into account to reach and support the appropriate target population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 72-79.