Abstract
Falls in adults aged 65 years and older are an important health issue associated with excess mortality, functional limitations, loss of independence, and reduced quality of life. Physicians can reduce the likelihood of falls in their older patients by incorporating prevention strategies into their clinical practice. Research has identified effective interventions, notably clinical assessment and risk factor reduction and exercise programs with balance training, that require older adults to adopt new behaviors. However, some older adults believe falls are an inevitable consequence of aging, while others do not see themselves as personally vulnerable. Factors that facilitate adopting fall interventions include social support, low-intensity exercise, and the perception that the programs are relevant. Barriers include fatalism, denial of risk, poor self-efficacy, and no previous history of exercise. To encourage their patients’ participation, physicians need to present fall interventions as lifestyle enhancing and as a way to remain independent. Messages should focus on positive health and social benefits such as improving balance and maintaining independence, rather than emphasizing negative information about falls and fall injuries. Along with the support of family and friends, a personal invitation from a health care provider will encourage older adults to take part in fall prevention programs.