Survey to evaluate environmental fall risk

Aim

Falls and fall-related injuries are a common and serious problem. From 2019 to 2020, 4 out of 5 fall-related hospital admissions in England occurred in people aged 60 years and over, indicating these people are at an increased risk. Importantly, falls are estimated to cost the NHS more than £2.3 billion per year.

From 2019 to 2020, 78% of all fall-related hospital admissions in England occurred in people aged 60 years and above (NHS Digital, 2020), indicating these people are at an increased risk. The home environment is a major risk factor contributing to falls. This study aims to determine the causes of falls in the home environment in adults aged 60 and above.

COVID-19 has placed unprecedented restrictions on our freedom and habitual activity since March 2020. This study also aims to determine the impact of COVID-19 public health measures on falls in the home environment.

Volunteer Criteria

Anyone aged 60 years and over who lives in the United Kingdom is eligible to take part.

What will I be asked to do?

This survey will take approximately ~15 minutes to complete. We will begin by asking some general questions which helps us to understand a little about you, then will go on to explore whether you have experienced a recent fall or near-fall in your own home. We will explore possible reasons for the fall or near-fall. If you have not experienced a fall or near-fall, please still complete the survey so that we can record this information. 

When and where?

The survey is online and may be completed any time until 30th September 2021

Will I get anything for taking part?

There will be no direct risks or benefits to you by taking part in this study, but it is hoped that this survey will help the researchers to determine if features of the home environment can be modified to reduce falls and near-falls in the future.