Falls among older adults in Mexico: frequency and associated factors

Abstract

Objective. To evaluate factors associated with falls among older Mexican adults who are part of a representative sample from a national survey. Materials and Methods. Individuals
aged 60 years and older who were part of the “Ensanut 2018-19” study sample were interviewed. The study consisted of a probabilistic, multistage survey with a sample of 44,612
households, in which all adults aged 60 and older were identified. The analytical sample consisted of 9,047 subjects. Results. The average age of adults aged 60 and older was 66.7 years;
56.7% were women. The prevalence of falls was 3.9%; the prevalence of falls within the diabetic group was 30.4%. Meanwhile, the prevalence of depressive symptoms and falls was
18.3%. The presence of amputations and neuro-ischemic ulcers in the lower limbs was associated with a higher risk of experiencing a fall. An additional year of age, the presence of
depressive symptoms, and being female were associated with a higher probability of experiencing falls. Conclusions. These findings allow us to direct and focus preventive and educational
measures on the geriatric population at risk of falls, particularly as the phase of physical, metabolic, and cognitive decline begins. Emphasis should be placed on the presence of depressive
symptoms, being an older woman, and the progression of age and old age—an inexorable biological process.