Falls in Indian older adults: A barrier to active ageing

Objectives. Rapid population ageing is predicted in India. Falls are one of the causes of injuries and non-communicable diseases associated with old age. Studies on falls in Indian older adults were reviewed to determine the prevalence, consequences, risk factors, and interventional strategies for falls. Data sources. MEDLINE, PubMed, Google, and IndMED. Study selection. Studies related to falls in Indian older adults published after 2000 were found using the key words: falls, Indian older adults or older adults, prevalence, circumstances and consequence, injuries, risk factors, health, balance, and mobility. Data extraction. The search resulted in 16 publications and 3 unpublished research studies. Data synthesis. The prevalence of falls in Indian older adults ranges from 14% to 53%. Falls result in considerable morbidity and mortality. Indian elderly people are facing challenges secondary to the changing socio-economic scenario, economic dependency, and decreasing family support. Fall-related injuries impose a substantial financial burden on older adults and their families, in addition to dependency for daily activities and activity restriction. Conclusion. Falls are an emerging public health problem and a barrier to active ageing in India. There is an urgent need for coordinated and collaborative efforts of health professionals, researchers, policy makers, and health care delivery systems to prevent falls and promote active ageing.