A Step to Prevent Falls in the Elderly: A Literature Review

This paper reviews the current literature to identify the way an orientation and mobility (O&M) instructor could effectively predict and/or reduce falls in the Australian-based elderly population with vision impairment. Common causes of falls associated with elderly people with vision impairment are discussed as are the shortcomings of falls prevention programs. Three assessment tools used to predict an individual’s risk of falling for the first time have been reviewed. Of the three, the QuickScreen tool could be readily used by an O&M instructor working with clients in their home that appears to be an efficient and cost effective resource providing the base for a successful falls prevention program.