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Learning Objective 1: To investigate the intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors involved in the elder fall occurrences at home.
Learning Objective 2: To determine the impact of these falls on the elderly’s life.
Methods: Cross-sectional study with quantitative approach in which were interviewed 102 elders registered in a Family’s Health Center of Picos, city of Piauí, Brazil, between August and September 2010. Data were collected using a questionnaire in order to verify the causes of falls, recurrence, data records about their lifestyle, routine and health aspects.
Results: 49% (50 elders) have already suffered, at least, once a fall at home. Out of those, 74% were women and 38% were men ranging from 60 to 65 years-old. Regarding to the fall places, 23.5% occurred in the bathroom, 33.3% during the ambulation and 21.6 % due to muscle weakness of the legs. Smooth and slippery surfaces and absence of handrails in the family units visited were attributed to the 28.4% of falls, according to the elders. The main consequence after the fallings was the apprehension of falling again, being cited by 82% (41) of the elders.
Conclusion: All information acquired by the investigation allowed the nurses and other members of staff to evaluate the conditions in which the elders are living to propose changes at their homes taking into consideration the capital available to the family. The natural effects of muscle mass and strength loss can be attenuated whether health care programs were developed to improve their motor and psychosocial faculties. This achievement requires a multidimensional approach based on an interdisciplinary staff combined action.