Neighborhood Perceptions and Fall Risk in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Le Qun, Chen Lingming, Procter-Gray Elizabeth, Zhang Meng, LoPilato Danielle, Aguirre Annabella, Li Wenjun
Primary Institution: University of Massachusetts Lowell
Hypothesis
This study explores the associations between neighborhood environment perceptions and the risk of falls among older adults.
Conclusion
Higher positive perceptions of neighborhood safety and community are associated with lower rates of falls among older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Higher scores in sense of community and safety were linked to lower indoor fall rates.
- A one-unit increase in aesthetics score was associated with 20% lower outdoor fall rates.
- Significant associations were found between higher neighborhood perception scores and lower overall fall rates.
Takeaway
If older people feel safer and more connected to their neighborhood, they are less likely to fall.
Methodology
Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed with negative binomial regressions.
Participant Demographics
Participants were aged over 65 years and lived in rural, suburban, and urban communities.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95%CI: 0.6-0.9
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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