Falls in elderly patients with glaucoma

Arch Ophthalmol. 1991 Feb;109(2):205-10. doi: 10.1001/archopht.1991.01080020051041.

Abstract

We analyzed the determinants of serious falls among 489 ambulatory elders aged 65 years and older who received a comprehensive examination at a glaucoma consultation service. For the previous year, at least one fall requiring medical attention or restricted activity was reported by 9.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 7.0% to 12.2%) of participants. Using logistic regression to adjust for potential confounding variables, the greatest single risk factor for falls was the use of nonmiotic topical eye medications (odds ratio [OR], 5.4; 95% Cl, 1.8 to 16.4). Additional risk factors for falls were female sex (OR, 2.3; 95% Cl, 1.1 to 4.7) and use of cardiac medications (OR, 2.5; 95% Cl, 1.1 to 5.6). Three other characteristics were also associated with the risk of falls: use of miotic eye medications (OR, 3.2; 95% Cl, 1.0 to 10.1); visual field impairment of 40% or greater (OR, 3.0; 95% Cl, 0.94 to 9.8); and use of sedatives (OR, 2.4; 95% Cl, 0.89 to 6.7). These findings suggest that ocular and systemic medications are the major predictors of falls even in this elderly population seeking ophthalmologic care for glaucoma. Medications appear to pose a greater risk for falls than even major visual impairment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls*
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Cardiovascular Agents / adverse effects
  • Female
  • Glaucoma / complications*
  • Glaucoma / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives / adverse effects
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Ophthalmic Solutions / adverse effects
  • Ophthalmic Solutions / therapeutic use
  • Regression Analysis
  • Risk Factors
  • Sex Factors
  • Visual Fields

Substances

  • Cardiovascular Agents
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives
  • Ophthalmic Solutions