Knowledge of risk factors for falling reported by patients with Parkinson disease

J Neurosci Nurs. 2007 Dec;39(6):336-41. doi: 10.1097/01376517-200712000-00004.

Abstract

This study examined awareness of the risk factors for falling among a group of community dwelling patients with Parkinson disease (PD) using the Falls Risk Awareness Questionnaire (FRAQ). A cross-sectional survey of 28 patients who attended a Movement Disorders Clinic for treatment of PD was used. FRAQ is a 28-item self-administered survey that assesses the knowledge and perception of risk factors for falling. Demographic, medical, and medication data were gathered from both the participants and clinic charts. Twenty-three (82%) of the participants reported falls in the past; seven (30%) had fallen within the past month. Nineteen (68%) of the participants felt they were at risk for further falls. When asked to list potential risk factors for falling, only 14% could identify medication as a risk factor. Persons with PD are at substantial risk of falling, yet many appear to be unaware of common risk factors, especially medication use.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls / prevention & control*
  • Alberta
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multivariate Analysis
  • Parkinson Disease* / drug therapy
  • Parkinson Disease* / nursing
  • Patient Education as Topic*
  • Polypharmacy*
  • Psychotropic Drugs / adverse effects
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Psychotropic Drugs