Factors Associated with Falls in Older Adults: A Retrospective Hospital-Based Study Using Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment in Thailand (2020–2023)
Preenapun Saokhieo, Suphawita Pliannuom, Natakorn Vidhayakula, Isares Tavivadhanasubhakij, Thanapat Promprasit, Phattarawit Dissai, Kanokporn Pinyopornpanish
Abstract
Background: Falls are a leading cause of injury and disability in older adults, significantly impacting their quality of life. Identifying fall-related factors through comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) offers valuable insights into fall prevention strategies. This study aimed to explore factors associated with falls from CGA among older adults in Thailand. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among older adults aged 60 years and older attending a geriatric clinic, Thailand between October 2020 and October 2023. Data were collected from electronic medical records, including personal information and CGA data (physical, psychological, and functional). The fall assessment was conducted on the same day by simply asking, “Have you ever fallen in the past year?”. The answer yes indicates a faller. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with falls. Results: Out of the 338 older adults, 96 (28.4%) reported a history of falls, 223 (65.98%) were older females, with a mean age of 69.76 ± 6.70 years. Significant factors of falls included advancing age (mOR 2.49, 95% CI 1.08-5.76, P -value = .033), female (mOR 1.92, 95% CI 1.02-3.61, P -value = .043), body mass index (BMI; mOR 0.92, 95% CI 0.85-0.99, P -value = .031), knee osteoarthritis (mOR 1.76, 95% CI 1.01-3.08, P -value = .045), and positive 2Q (mOR 0.33, 95% CI 0.11-0.99, P -value = .048). Conclusion: This study identified several CGA-derived factors—such as advanced age, female sex, lower BMI, knee osteoarthritis, and depression— that were associated with falls in older adults. These findings highlight the importance of integrating CGA into routine geriatric care to identify high-risk individuals and to inform targeted fall-prevention strategies in hospital settings.