Occupational performance and participation amongst older adults at risk of falling

Background: We are living in an aging society. As we age our satisfaction with our occupational performance and participation can decrease for numerous factors e.g. frailty (Ganz et al, 2007). Falls and fall occurrences are... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
We are living in an aging society. As we age our satisfaction with our occupational performance and participation can decrease for numerous factors e.g. frailty (Ganz et al, 2007). Falls and fall occurrences are one of the leading causes of this decrease in satisfaction with occupational performance and participation. However, little emphasis is placed on this in the literature. This research aims to explore the impact a fall detection system (FDS) known as FATE had on the older adult’s satisfaction in their daily occupations.

Method:
The participant used the FDS for 6 months. Assessment of occupations and satisfaction was carried out using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure at pre intervention and post intervention.

Results:
The results indicate that the older adults satisfaction with self-care and leisure related occupations increased upon post intervention assessment. Participants reported re-engaging in occupations they had once restricted.

Conclusion:
Overall, the FDS had a positive impact on the older adult’s satisfaction in carrying out their daily occupations. An increase in occupational participation in leisure activities was also found.

Application to Practice:
The results of this research illustrate how technology like a FDS can promote engagement and in some cases re-engagement in occupations that are meaningful to the older adult. Therefore, discussion of FDS should be part of older adult clinical practice.