Development and validation of the comprehensive falls risk screening instrument

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

5-25-2010

Abstract

Annually, one in three older adults experiences a fall. Falls can lead to death, disability, and/or decreased health-related quality of life (HRQL). Objectives: To validate the Comprehensive Falls Risk Screening Instrument (CFRSI). Methods: Data were collected on 286 older adults (M age in years 74.2 ± 10.0). The CFRSI total falls risk score was compared to subscale scores, the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE), the Functional Status Index (FSI), and HRQL (SF-36, PCS, and Mental Component Summary (MCS)) scores. Results: The total CFRSI falls risk score was associated with all subscales (r 0.25, p < 0.01 to r 0.69, p < 0.01), PASE (r -0.30, p < 0.01), FSI (r 0.30, p < 0.01), and SF-36 PCS and MCS scores (r -0.44, p < 0.01 to r -0.24, p 0.03, respectively). Fallers (n 90) had a higher total falls risk score (M 41.03 ± 9.38) than nonfallers (n 188, M 34.06 ± 10.05, t 276 5.53, p < 0.001). The most important predictor of falling status was only the history risk score (r 0.96). Strong association of variables supports the construct validation of the CFRSI. The CFRSI is a valid comprehensive measure of falls risk that allows for identification of older adults who are at risk for falls and the specific areas that should be targeted for falls prevention. Copyright © 2010 Informa Healthcare USA, Inc.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Physical and Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics

First Page

181

Last Page

194

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