Abstract

The progressive aging of the population represents a growing challenge for healthcare systems and is associated with an increased prevalence of falls among older adults, particularly in institutional settings. Falls are considered by the World Health Organization (2021) a major public health problem due to their high incidence, morbidity, mortality, and negative impact on autonomy, functionality, and quality of life. Falls are the second leading cause of death from accidental injuries worldwide.

This article aims to analyze the main risk factors, consequences, and fall prevention strategies among institutionalized older adults, based on a project developed in a nursing home and day care center in an inland region of northern Portugal.

This is a descriptive study grounded in a literature review and observation of the institutional context. The results show that falls result from the interaction of multiple factors (intrinsic and extrinsic) and can be prevented through multidimensional interventions, particularly environmental adaptation, health education, and the promotion of functional autonomy.

It is concluded that implementing systematic preventive strategies can significantly contribute to reducing fall risk and improving the quality of life of institutionalized older adults.

Keywords

aging, falls, prevention, institutionalization, risk factors