Article

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence of and risk factors for falling among
individuals aging with multiple sclerosis (MS), muscular dystrophy (MD),
postpolio syndrome (PPS), and spinal cord injury (SCI).
DESIGN: Cross-sectional
survey data from 2009 to 2010 were analyzed. We used forward logistic regression
models to examine whether risk factors such as age, sex, mobility level, years
since diagnosis, vision, balance, weakness, number of comorbid conditions, and
physical activity could distinguish participants who reported falling from those
who did not. SETTING: Surveys were mailed to community-dwelling individuals who
had 1 of 4 diagnoses (MS, MD, PPS, or SCI). The survey response rate was 91%.
PARTICIPANTS: A convenience sample of community-dwelling individuals (N=1862;
age, 18-94y) with MS, MD, PPS, or SCI in the United States. INTERVENTIONS: Not
applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Self-reported fall within the last 6 months.
RESULTS: Fall prevalence for people with MS (54%), MD (70%), PPS (55%), and SCI
(40%). Across all 4 groups, fall rates peaked in middle age (45-64y) and among
people with moderate mobility limitations. Seven risk factors differentiated
participants who fell from those who did not: mobility level, imbalance, age,
curvilinear age (age(2)), number of comorbid conditions, duration of diagnosis,
and sex. The models differed across diagnostic groups. CONCLUSIONS: People aging
with long-term physical disabilities experience unique challenges that affect
their risk of falls. A better understanding of the frequency, severity, and risk
factors of falls across diagnostic groups is needed to design and implement
customized, effective fall prevention and management programs for these
individuals.
CI - Copyright (c) 2015 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by
Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS