Fall Hazard Identification: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Abstract Aims Fall hazards identification and reduction is an important component of falls prevention. The purpose of this review is to describe the literature on fall hazards identification in older adults, characterize how it is delivered, and identify any gaps in knowledge. Method CINHAL, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and PsychINFO were used to identify articles. Studies were selected to describe: 1) theoretical strategies related to fall hazards identification, 2) the nature of interventions, and 3) the use in community contexts. Results A total of 35 articles were identified spanning from 1994 to 2019. Fall hazards identification was most commonly used to reduce the risk of falls in community-dwelling older adults, focusing largely of fall reduction in the home, facilitated by occupational therapists and researchers. Conclusion Establishing a clear definition of fall hazards, and developing a theoretical framework to facilitate program implementation should advance fall hazards identification.