TY  - JOUR
PY  - 2011//
TI  - Falls in the elderly: Spectrum and prevention
JO  - Canadian family physician
A1  - Al-Aama, Tareef
SP  - 771
EP  - 776
VL  - 57
IS  - 7
N2  - Objective To provide family physicians with a practical, evidence-based approach to fall prevention in the elderly. Sources of information MEDLINE was searched using terms relevant to falls among the elderly in the community and in institutions. Relevant English-language papers published from 1980 to July 2010 were reviewed. Relevant geriatric society guidelines were reviewed as well. Main message Falls are a common and serious health problem with devastating consequences. Several risk factors have been identified in the literature. Falls can be prevented through several evidence-based interventions, which can be either single or multicomponent interventions. Identifying at-risk patients is the most important part of management, as applying preventive measures in this vulnerable population can have a profound effect on public health. Conclusion Family physicians have a pivotal role in screening older patients for risk of falls, and applying preventive strategies for patients at risk.<p />  <p>Language: en</p>
LA  - en
SN  - 0008-350X
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/
ID  - ref1
ER  -