Traumatismo cranioencefálico e quedas em idosos: associação com fatores extrínsecos e intrínsecos

Abstract

Objective: Exposing the prevalence of falls in elderly associated to intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors. Methods: It is a cross-sectional study, quantitative and exploratory. It was established a fixed ratio of 10 elderly people for each micro area of coverage of primary health care unit located in Fortaleza, Ceará. The instrument used was a structured questionnaire applied by four previously trained research students, accompanied by a professor in elderly at primary health care unit in a private room, questioning regarding the prevalence of falls and their circumstances, intrinsic and extrinsic factors related to falls. Results: We interviewed 50 elderly (age ≥ 60 years) with an average age of 67.32 years ±5,63, 24%(12) men and 76%(38) women. Among the respondents the prevalence of falls in the last 12 months was 48%(24). Of these, 25%(6) reported hitting his head at the time of the fall. On the analysis of intrinsic risk factors, 62%(31) complained of decreased perception of distance, peripheral vision or dark adaptation, 50%(25) complained of muscular weakness. As for extrinsic factors, there was the presence of 30%(15) on slippery surfaces, loose rugs or fold in 42%(21), absence of handrails in hallways and bathrooms in 78%(39), poorly maintained road with holes or irregularities in 82%(41), among others. Conclusion: Falls among the elderly represent an important public health problem. The elderly studied exhibited marked prevalence of falls associated with risk factors, demonstrating the importance of establishing actions to health promotion of that portion of the population.