While it is possible that all falls are not preventable, it is the duty of the healthcare worker to attempt to reduce the potential for falls with knowledge and understanding of the phenomena of fall factors. Effective and successful fall prevention programs can reduce the rate of falls in the elderly, thereby reducing complications associated with falls.

There is sufficient documentation in recent literature to confirm that as a person ages, the risk of falling increases. Current literature suggests that “fifty percent of long term care patients fall each year” with fall index rates calculated to be as high as “4-12 falls per 1,000 bed days”.

The study of the phenomena of falls is important to continue in the search for the best practice for the prevention of falls in the at risk population(s). It is possible to identify residents at risk of falling by understanding the nature of falls and providing ongoing education of direct care staff. Ongoing education, implementation of evidence based practices, and use of research based knowledge increases staff awareness of fall risk factors and serves as a conduit to write specific care plans and implement appropriate care to residents. While all falls can not be prevented, it is possible to reduce injuries associated with unpreventable falls. Reducing the number of falls and fall associated injuries will improve quality of life, decrease healthcare costs, and prevent costly litigation in relation to fall mortality.

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