Effectiveness of preventive interventions in reducing falls among older adults in long-term care facilities

Abstract

Population aging and the increase in chronic diseases raise concerns for health policies, especially in relation to the dependency of the elderly. The WHO recommends maintaining physical activity to preserve independence and reduce frailty. Fall prevention programs are essential, as falls are a major cause of morbidity and mortality among the elderly, also affecting their self-confidence and quality of life. Such programs aim to improve strength and balance in older adults, and are widely supported by evidence and recommended for implementation in primary care. The study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, such as balance exercises and environmental adaptations, in reducing falls and improving safety and quality of life in long-term care institutions. This is a bibliographic review, with a qualitative and methodological descriptive and exploratory approach. The review followed six stages, from the formulation of the guiding question to the presentation of the results. The data collection, carried out in September 2024, included original articles in Portuguese, English and Spanish, published in the last fifteen years, using databases such as PubMed and Scielo. Editorials, theses, and studies that were outdated or irrelevant to the research were excluded. Falls in the elderly are the result of a complex combination of biological, behavioral, social, and environmental factors. Effective interventions often involve multifactorial approaches, combining balancing exercises and environmental adaptations. Strength training, especially for the lower extremities, and continuous assessment of individual risks are essential for prevention. Although the combination of strategies is promising, heterogeneity between risk factors and interventions limits the generalizability of results. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies, standardization of practices, and the use of emerging technologies to optimize fall prevention. Continuous training of professionals and the adaptation of interventions to the specific needs of older people are crucial to improve quality of life and reduce falls.