Use of a fall risk evaluation in a community-based pharmacy

Area of Science:

• Geriatrics
• Public Health
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Falls in older adults represent a significant public health issue, incurring substantial healthcare costs.
• Medication-related problems are a key contributor to fall risk in this population.
• Community pharmacists are strategically positioned to identify and address medication-related fall risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the integration of the STEADI fall risk screening tool into community pharmacy practice.
• To evaluate medication management interventions for older adults identified as at risk for falls.
• To determine the utility of a pharmacist-led fall risk assessment program.

Main Methods:

• A 3-item STEADI fall risk screening was administered to 311 pharmacy patrons aged 50+ on high-risk medications.
• A comprehensive medication review (CMR) was conducted for patients screening positive for fall risk.
• Medication recommendations were provided to prescribers based on CMR findings.

Main Results:

• 17% of screened patients (53/311) were identified as potentially at risk for falls.
• The most frequent concerns were fear of falling and unsteadiness while walking.
• Limited medication changes (4/6 accepted) were made despite identified risks.

Conclusions:

• The STEADI assessment effectively identifies older adults at potential risk of falls in a community pharmacy setting.
• There is a need for enhanced strategies to deprescribe high-risk medications in at-risk individuals.
• Pharmacist-led interventions show promise but require further development for greater impact on fall prevention.