Automatic fall detectors and the fear of falling

Abstract

We studied the effect of automatic fall detection units on the fear of falling amongst community alarm users living in the community. A total of 55 community alarm users, at increased risk of falling were recruited: 34 received fall detectors (intervention group) and there were 21 in a control group. On intention to treat analysis, there was no significant difference between the intervention and control group on change in fear of falls (40.3 vs 37.5, difference 2.8, 95% CI –6.2 to 11.8), health-related quality of life or morale. Differences in fear of falling, between a group who wore their detector regularly (62%) and those who did not, suggest that some people may benefit from a fall detector; conversely, others may lose confidence if provided with a fall detector. Most users who wore their detectors regularly felt more confident and independent and considered that the detector improved their safety