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Fall episodes in elderly patients with asthma and COPD - A pilot study
Andrzej Bozek1, Jerzy Jarzab1, Ewa Hadas1
1a Clinical Department of Internal Medicine, Dermatology and Allergology Zabrze , Medical University of Silesia , Katowice , Poland.
Summary
Elderly patients with asthma experience a high rate of falls, similar to those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study highlights fall risks in both respiratory conditions.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Respiratory Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Falls are a significant concern in elderly populations.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is associated with an increased fall risk.
- Fall incidence in elderly asthmatic patients remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the incidence of falls in elderly patients diagnosed with bronchial asthma versus those with COPD.
- To identify risk factors associated with frequent falls in these patient groups.
Main Methods:
- A 12-month prospective observational study of elderly outpatients with asthma or COPD.
- Monitoring of falls, comorbidities, drug therapy, and balance using the Berg Balance Scale.
- Cluster analysis to identify subgroups of frequent fallers.
Main Results:
- Fall incidence rate was 1.41 falls/person/year in asthmatics and 1.49 in COPD patients.
- Frequent fallers were slightly more prevalent in the COPD group (32%) than in the asthma group (28%).
- Cluster analysis identified two frequent faller profiles linked to polytherapy, depression, hospitalizations, and comorbidities like coronary disease and dementia.
Conclusions:
- Elderly patients with asthma exhibit a high fall rate comparable to COPD patients.
- Both asthma and COPD patients with specific comorbidities and polytherapy are at higher risk of frequent falls.
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