Abstract
Purpose
This study compared age differences in risk factors for falls requiring treatment in psychiatric patients.
Design and Methods
An incident database was used to compare fall incidents in patients aged less than 65 years and those aged greater than or equal to 65 years.
Findings
Approximately 30% of fallers were less than 65 years. Mental status and medication were the main risk factors. Decreased activities of daily living were associated with the most falls in patients greater than or equal to 65 years.
Practice Implications
Fall risk differed between the two age groups. Medication may play a major role in falls among patients less than 65 years.