Multifactorial and multiple component interventions for preventing falls in older people living in the community.
Cynthia Swarnalatha, Lianne Wood, Paul Newell et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of multifactorial and multiple component fall prevention interventions in community-dwelling older adults (≥ 60 years). The analysis included 110 RCTs with 48,919 participants. Multifactorial interventions may reduce falls rate (RaR 0.76) and risk of recurrent falls (RR 0.87) compared to usual care, but have little effect on the overall risk of falling.
Key findings
- Multifactorial interventions may reduce falls rate (RaR 0.76, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.87).
- Multifactorial interventions probably increase falls rate compared to falls advice (RaR 1.09, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.18).
- Multiple component interventions may reduce the risk of falling (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.80 to 0.97).
- Evidence on the effects of multifactorial interventions versus exercise is very uncertain.
Why it matters
Understanding the effectiveness of fall prevention strategies is crucial for reducing fall-related injuries in older adults. This review provides insights into which interventions may be beneficial, guiding clinicians in their approach to fall prevention.