Does concern about falling predict future falls in older adults? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The 2022 World Falls Guidelines recommend assessing concerns (or 'fears') about falling in multifactorial fall risk assessments. However, the evidence base for this recommendation is limited. This review evaluated the evidence for concerns about falling as an independent predictor of future falls, applying the Bradford Hill criteria for causality.

Methods

Systematic review and meta-analyses were conducted (PROSPERO registration ID: CRD42023387212). MEDLINE, CINAHL Plus, Web of Science and PsycINFO were searched for studies examining associations between baseline concerns about falling and future falls in older adults (minimum 6-month follow-up). Meta-analyses examined associations between concerns about falling and future falls. Risk of bias was assessed using an

SUBMITTER: Ellmers TJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11976718 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature