Preliminary Analysis of Fall Concern Among Family Caregivers of Older Adults Discharged From the Hospital: A Psychometric Evaluation of the Carers' Fall Concern Instrument

J Gerontol Nurs. 2024 May;50(5):14-18. doi: 10.3928/00989134-20240416-03. Epub 2024 May 1.

Abstract

Purpose: To provide a preliminary descriptive analysis of the change in fall concern among family caregiver-care recipient dyads during hospitalization and after discharge as part of a prospective study exploring the psychometric properties of the Carers' Fall Concern Instrument.

Method: Using a prospective cohort design, an interviewer-administered survey was completed by dyads at 48 hours before discharge and 1 week and 30 days after discharge.

Results: Of family caregivers, 76.9% thought their care recipient was at risk of falling and 61.5% were afraid of them falling. However, only 34.6% of older adults thought that they were at risk of falling and only 42.3% were afraid of falling. Family caregivers reported significantly less concern about falls after their care recipients were discharged.

Conclusion: This study provided greater insight into caregiver-care recipient dyads' fall concern during their transition from hospital to home that may guide post-discharge fall prevention education on falls. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 50(5), 14-18.].

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls* / prevention & control
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Caregivers* / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Discharge*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Psychometrics*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires