Environmental Hazard at Home and Fall Incidence among the Elderly in Malaysia

Abstract

Background: Aging is an inevitable stage of life during which individuals are vulnerable to declines in health and function, thereby increasing their risk of falls. According to statistics, the incidence of falls among older adults has reached about 36 million each year, and falls have been clarified as the leading cause of injury and death in this age group worldwide. Significance: Fall incidents may be associated with many causes and risk factors. Along with their sociodemographic characteristics and health status, their surrounding environment also plays a significant role in influencing the occurrence of falls. Aim: This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the incidence of falls and the hazards presented in Malaysian houses. Objectives: To identify the prevalence of falls among elderly individuals in Malaysia, as well as the types and prevalence of environmental hazards present in their homes. It also seeks to examine whether there are significant differences in the incidence of falls based on the presence of physical limitations, sensory impairments, cognitive problems, or psychological symptoms. Method: This study was conducted through an online survey using a set of questionnaires that consisted of sociodemographic data, the incidence of falls, and the Home Safety Self-Assessment Tool (HSSAT). A purposive sampling technique was used to obtain data from a total of 458 Malaysian elderly individuals. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the prevalence of falls and the types of home hazards. A Chi-Square test was used to investigate the significant difference in fall incidence between individuals presenting with physical limitations, sensory problems, cognitive problems, and psychological symptoms. Additionally, the independent T-test was used to determine whether there were significant differences in mean total hazard scores between elderly individuals who had experienced falls and those who had not. Findings: There were significant differences in mean total hazards scored in all home spaces except the kitchen between the fallen and non-fallen elderly group. Meanwhile, for the kitchen, there was no significant difference in the mean total hazards between the two groups. The presence and absence of cognitive problems and psychological symptoms indicated significant differences. Limitations: The results of this study could not directly predict the occurrence of falls based solely on the mean total hazards, as the elderly group with fall incidences also presented with physical, sensory, cognitive, and psychological deficits. Implications: The study's findings provide important information for further enhancing occupational therapy home modifications, a key fall prevention strategy.