Compliance Prediction of a Novel Head Protection Device for Elderly Patients With Fall Risk

Abstract

Brain injury from ground level falls (GLF) is common and has substantial morbidity. We identified a potential head protection device (HPD). This report describes predicted future compliance. 21 elderly patients were provided a HPD and were evaluated on admission and after discharge. Compliance, ease of use, and comfort were evaluated. Differences between categorical variables (gender, race, age group1, 55-77 years; group2, 78+) and compliance were tested using the chi-squared statistic. HPD compliance at baseline was 90% with 85% at follow-up ( P = .33). No difference with HPD interaction ( P = .72), ease of use ( P = .57), and comfort ( P = .77). Weight was a concern on follow-up ( P = .001). Age group1 was more compliant ( P=.05). At two months, patients were compliant with no falls recorded. The identified HPD with modifications has a high predicted compliance in this population. After the device is modified, effectiveness will be assessed.