There is strong evidence (level 1a) that a home hazard assessment and modifications can reduce the number of falls at home in older people with a history of falling but not in those without a history of falls

Prepared by:

David Chircop (email address: dave2750@hotmail.com)
4th year undergraduate occupational therapy student,
University of Western Sydney

Date:

June 2004

Review Date:

June 2006

Clinical Question:

Do home modifications reduce the incidence of falls at home in older adults?

Clinical Scenario:

Home visits are seen as core business for occupational therapists and are usually conducted as part of the hospital discharge planning process. Home visits for older people are usually performed to reduce the likelihood of a fall by identifying hazards in the home and providing modifications or a follow up intervention. But do occupational therapists reduce the likelihood of falls in older people as a result of conducting a home hazard assessment and arrange home modifications?

Clinical Bottom Line:

A home hazard assessment followed by home modifications can significantly reduce the incidence of falls at home for older people with a history of falls but not in those without a history of falls.

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