THE FALL IN THE GERIATRIC POPULATION: EPIDEMIOLOGY AND PREVENTION

Abstract

The article discusses the fall as a significant public health problem. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 37.3 million cases of medically related falls occur each year. Human age is one of the major risk factors. Along with the "aging" trend of the society, the number of elderly people is increasing. Consequently, the number of falls and traumatic injuries caused by it increases for this quota.In developed countries, special attention is paid to studying the epidemiological characteristics of the fall in the population aged 65 and older. Such attention is that it is possible to plan and implement various preventive measures specifically for the target group and develop relevant recommendations to improve quality of life.The fall is one of the most common geriatric syndromes that threatens the independent lifestyle of older people and is related not only to medical but also social and economic aspects. However, epidemiological data of the fall are not properly studied in developing countries, including Georgia.Therefore, to reduce the traumatic injuries caused by falls in Georgia, it is essential to conduct appropriate epidemiological studies, identify the most critical risk factors, raise public awareness, and develop and implement appropriate preventive measures.