Fall Determinants and Associated Factors in Older People

With aging, the body goes through a natural process characterized by functional and structural changes, which may be accompanied by physical and mental health problems caused often by chronic illnesses that make the elderly frail and more likely to suffer falls. Objective: to identify through literature review the main intrinsic and extrinsic factors associated with falls in the elderly. Methods: a literature search was performed from the databases SciELO, MedLine, Bireme and books. Results: The studies revealed the importance of identification of intrinsic and extrinsic factors in episodes of falls in the elderly. In most studies analysed the major emphasis is given to the root causes as the main causes of these events; however you need to consider environmental factors. Conclusion: during the aging process the older people becomes more prone to suffer falls where these are caused by a multifactorial process.