Risk factors for fall-related injuries among community-dwelling men and women over 70 years of age, based on social cognitive theory: results from a population study

Introduction: Healthcare professionals', especially physiotherapists' role as promoters, preventers and rehabilitators play a significant role in prevention of falls. The purpose of this study was to gain knowledge on the risk factors which are associated with fall-related injuries among community dwelling men and women, based on Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) concepts. Patients and methods: The study includes 13,151 people who responded to a postal survey questionnaire in 2017. The random sample consisted of men and women aged 70 years and older. Multivariate regression models were used to explore associations between theory-based risk factors and fall-related injuries. Results: A total of 16% (1951 people) reported a fall-related injury during the past 12 months. For men, a total of seven risk factors were associated with fall-related injury: age, pain (neck/shoulder), incontinence, depression, help in daily living, education and sedentary behaviour. For women, a total of nine risk factors were associated with fall-related injury: age, pain (extremities and neck/shoulder), tiredness, incontinence, appetite, economy, accommodation and participation in social activities. Conclusions: This study identified risk factors from all aspects of the SCT, serving as a clinically useful theory in addition to traditional fall preventive actions. Gender differences should be considered when designing fall prevention strategies.