Perceptual Dysfunction in Elderly People with Cognitive Impairment: A Risk Factor for Falls?

Abstract

Elderly people with cognitive impairment are highly susceptible to falls and are likely to have perceptual dysfunction. However, the possible relationship between falls and perceptual deficits has never been considered. The purpose of this exploratory study was to investigate whether perceptual deficits are a risk factor for falls and, if so, which types of perceptual dysfunction may pose the greatest risk. A qualitative approach was adopted, using an interview with therapists and observation of elderly residents in care homes. Interaction with the environment, movement and psychological factors emerged as important markers of perceptual dysfunction related to falls. Spatial disorientation emerged as the most important perceptual risk factor. Occupational therapists and physiotherapists should seek ways to improve spatial orientation in elderly cognitively impaired people who fall or who might fall. Adaptive strategies to help them to interact with the environment and approaches to gait analysis that seek a cognitive-perceptual explanation for movement difficulties may be useful.