Gerontology & Geriatric Research

Dennis W Klima

Publications

• Research Article
  An Emergency Department Screen to Identify Older Adults at-Risk for Falls
  Author(s): Roberta A Newton, Dennis W Klima, Tina Brown Reid and Nina T GentileRoberta A Newton, Dennis W Klima, Tina Brown Reid and Nina T Gentile
  
  Background: The purpose of the study was to develop a preliminary Fall Risk Screening tool and determine the ability of the instrument to identify older adults with fall risk factors and those at-risk for future falls and fear of falling in the Emergency Department (ED). Methods: The ED Fall Risk Screen was initially tested on 42 community-dwelling older adults in the ED who completed the screen and follow-up phases. The tool was subsequently revised by adding select physical performance tests and administered to a second cohort of 103 older adults on-site in the community. Three month follow-up was performed. Statistical analyses included logistic regression modeling for prediction of both falls and fear of falling. Results: Fifteen of the ED patients (35.7%) had two major fall risk factors, including: previous falls, decreased leg strength, and balance and gait p.. View More»
  DOI: 10.4172/2167-7182.S1-002

  Abstract PDF