WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

*Alaa Maan Irmish and Sally Alaa Mohammed Ridha

ABSTRACT

Background: The ageing process involves progressive anatomical and physiological changes, with falls being a major global concern and a leading cause of traumatic death. Aim of the study: To evaluate the knowledge and attitude of elderly care home residents regarding falls, their preventive measures, and complications, and to assess the association between falls and selected sociodemographic characteristics. Patients and Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in two elderly care homes in Baghdad (Al-Ataa and Al-Rahma) from August 1, 2024, to January 1, 2025. Out of 143 residents, 123 participated. Exclusion criteria included those unwilling to participate and those unable to respond due to physical or mental impairment. The questionnaire covered sociodemographic data, knowledge, and attitudes towards falls. Results: About 90.2% of participants were aware of the risks and complications of falls, 91.1% knew the causes, and 78% were familiar with preventive measures. Chronic disease was identified as the main cause of falls by 64.3%, while 46.9% considered frequent medical follow-up the key preventive measure. A history of at least one fall was reported by 61% of participants, with 56.3% experiencing only one fall. A significant association was found between chronic disease and a history of falls (P-value=0.029). Conclusion: Nearly half of the participants experienced at least one fall, with chronic disease being a significant risk factor. Most participants had adequate knowledge of the causes, complications, and preventive measures of falls among the elderly.