| Author: | Chan, Ka-sing |
| Title: | Falls among community-dwelling people with chronic stroke in Hong Kong |
| Degree: | M.Sc. |
| Year: | 2010 |
| Subject: | Hong Kong Polytechnic University -- Dissertations Falls (Accidents) in old age -- China -- Hong Kong Cerebrovascular disease -- Patients -- China -- Hong Kong |
| Department: | School of Nursing |
| Pages: | x, 94 leaves : ill. ; 30 cm. |
| Language: | English |
| Abstract: | Background: People with chronic stroke living in the community may be affected by their residual stroke impairments which may increase the risks of falls. This study was to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of falls as well as the relationship between falls and other functional parameters retrospectively in people with chronic stroke in the community. Methods: A total of 95 subjects with chronic stroke of moderate to mild disabilities who are active outdoor walkers were recruited from the self-help groupsin Hong Kong by convenient sampling. Assessments included a cross-sectional interview by an occupational therapist to obtain information about the details of falls over the preceding one year, and neurological and balance assessments to measure the physical performance at the time of interview. Results: It was found that the prevalence was 52.6% with 50 subjects out of 95 had fallen in the preceding one year. 24 (25.2%) out of 95 subjects had fallen more than once. 18 (36%) subjects were suffered from injuries and 8 of them need medication after falls. Indoor falls (58%) was common than outdoor falls. And, walking (24%) and posture transition (18%) were the two most common tasks preceding falls. Significant differences were found in visual problems, use of walking aids, and self-perceived fear of fall (FoF), the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and the Timed Up and Go test (TUG) between fallers and non-fallers. Subjects who had maid support (OR=0.09) and better balance performance (OR.83) were less likely to suffer from falls. Subjects who were impaired in visual acuity (OR=6.71) and living in public housing (OR=6.67) would be more likely to suffer from multiple falls. In contrast, subjects who were living with spouse support (OR=0.23) and had better balance performance (OR=0.87) would be less likely to suffer from multiple falls. Conclusion: Fall is common in people with chronic stroke. Subjects' demographic, functional and visual performances, but not fall related self-efficacy, were associated with subjects' fall history. Adequate social support may reduce falls risks in people with chronic stroke. Home-based or environmental interventions as well as routine rehabilitation should be integrated in falls prevention programme. |
| Rights: | All rights reserved |
| Access: | restricted access |
Files in This Item:
| File | Description | Size | Format | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| b23526889.pdf | For All Users (off-campus access for PolyU Staff & Students only) | 3.43 MB | Adobe PDF | View/Open |
Copyright Undertaking
As a bona fide Library user, I declare that:
- I will abide by the rules and legal ordinances governing copyright regarding the use of the Database.
- I will use the Database for the purpose of my research or private study only and not for circulation or further reproduction or any other purpose.
- I agree to indemnify and hold the University harmless from and against any loss, damage, cost, liability or expenses arising from copyright infringement or unauthorized usage.
By downloading any item(s) listed above, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the copyright undertaking as stated above, and agree to be bound by all of its terms.
Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item:
https://theses.lib.polyu.edu.hk/handle/200/5609