Awareness and Practice of Home Modifications for Fall Prevention among the Elderly Population in Urban Pune: A Randomized Cross-sectional Survey.

Abstract

Falls among the elderly pose a significant public health concern globally. In India, the prevalence of falls ranges from 14% to 53%. Falls can have a significant financial impact on families, particularly in the middle socioeconomic strata, where preventive tools may be more cost-effective. The objective is to assess the awareness and practice of home modification interventions for fall prevention among the elderly population in urban Pune. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among elderly individuals aged 60 and above, living in four cooperative housing societies in urban Pune. The questionnaire included 35 questions on attitudes, knowledge, and practices related to fall prevention. Statistical analyses included Kruskal-Wallis tests, ANOVA, independent t-tests, and correlation and regression analyses. The knowledge subscale had adequate reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.741), while the attitude (0.529) and practice (0.200) subscales showed lower reliability. The study included 132 participants, with 59.09% males and 40.91% females. Majority were from the lower middle socioeconomic status (SES) (51.52%). The mean score for knowledge was 3.90 ± 0.47. Correlation analyses, including Pearson's correlation, linear regression, and point-biserial correlation, revealed a very low and nonsignificant relationship between knowledge and practice (r = 0.019, P = 0.832). Age and SES did not significantly influence practices (P > 0.05). Despite high awareness, significant gaps remain in the practice of fall prevention measures among the elderly in urban Pune. Multifactorial interventions and an Indian-specific assessment tool are necessary for effective fall prevention.