Gender Differences in Older Adults' Perceptions of Falls and Fall Prevention

To explore gender differences in older adults' perceptions about preventing falls.

Falls are a major problem for older adults and health care systems and a challenge to the aging population. Consideration of older adults' perceptions of fall prevention is needed to increase their engagement in evidence-based prevention strategies.

A qualitative analysis of secondary data was performed.

Three major themes emerged: We've Seen It, Women Are Caregivers, and Men Are Analyzing Risks and Modifying Behaviors. The men and women in this study shared information about falls and fall prevention in alignment with traditional role expectations. The women learned about falling through their roles as caregivers and prevented falls by controlling extrinsic risk factors indoors such as holding onto handrails on stairs or making home modifications. The men demonstrated an analytical approach to reducing risk such as employing improved safety measures during outdoors activities as a responsibility to maintain independence.

The different perceptions of men and women influence what they do to engage in fall prevention. Health care professionals need to consider gender differences and take an individualized approach that includes allowing older adults to share their experiences, acknowledging their successful fall prevention behaviors, and validating and addressing their concerns.