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Epidemiology of Falls and Mobility Disorders

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Abstract

Falls and mobility disorders are common in older adults and have multiple serious consequences that include injury, disability and even death. Inconsistencies among data sources with regard to terminology and study methods create challenges in interpreting the literature on this subject. Nevertheless, the field now has an extensive knowledge base regarding risk factors, screening and preventive interventions. Since the needs of older adults vary greatly by setting (e.g., community, hospital and long-term care), so must public health services. Mobility disorders frequently overlap with falls and problems with balance. Thus, public health approaches should integrate the screening and management of falls, balance disorders and mobility problems.

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Abbreviations

FDA:

Food and Drug Administration

LIFE-M:

Lifestyle Interventions and Indepen­dence for Elders – Main

LIFE-P:

Lifestyle Interventions and Indepen­dence for Elders – Pilot

SPPB:

Short Physical Performance Battery

US:

United States

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Shadyside Hospital, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, 3471 Fifth Ave Suite 500, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA

    Katherine Ritchey DO, MPH

  2. University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 3471 Fifth Ave Suite 500, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA

    Stephanie Studenski M.D., MPH

Authors
  1. Katherine Ritchey DO, MPH
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  2. Stephanie Studenski M.D., MPH
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Correspondence to Stephanie Studenski M.D., MPH .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. , Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, A527 Crabtree Hall, DeSoto Street 130, Pittsburgh, 15261, Pennsylvania, USA

    Anne B. Newman

  2. Graduate School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, DeSoto Street, A510 Crabtree 130, Pittsburgh, 15261, Pennsylvania, USA

    Jane A. Cauley

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Ritchey, K., Studenski, S. (2012). Epidemiology of Falls and Mobility Disorders. In: Newman, A., Cauley, J. (eds) The Epidemiology of Aging. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-5061-6_17

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