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The Role of Physical Activity in Falls and Injury Prevention Among Older Adults

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Guest Editor

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Guest Editor
1. Biosciences Higher School of Elvas, Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre, 7300-110 Portalegre, Portugal
2. Research Center of Higher Institute of Educational Sciences (CI-ISCE), 4560-547 Penafiel, Portugal
3. Life Quality Research Centre (CIEQV), 2040-413 Portalegre, Portugal
Interests: sport physiology; sports science; human performance; coaching science

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Falls and fall-related injuries are significant health concerns for older adults, often leading to a decline in mobility, independence, and quality of life. With aging populations worldwide, preventing falls has become a crucial public health goal. Physical activity is recognized as one of the most effective strategies with which to reduce fall risk among older adults. Regular physical activity improves muscle strength, balance, flexibility, and overall physical function, all of which contribute to greater stability and reduce the likelihood of falls. Programs focused on strength and balance training, such as Tai Chi, yoga, and resistance exercises, have shown promising results in minimizing fall risk. Additionally, engaging in physical activity supports cognitive function, which can further aid in fall prevention.

This Special Issue invites research on diverse approaches to incorporating physical activity into the lives of older adults, examining specific interventions, the impact of various exercise types, and how these contribute to reducing fall risk and associated injuries. Papers on barriers to physical activity, strategies to enhance participation, and outcomes related to physical, psychological, and social health are also welcome.

Dr. José Alberto Frade Martins Parraca
Dr. Nelson André Alcacer Valente
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • fall prevention
  • older adults
  • physical activity
  • injury prevention
  • balance training
  • strength training
  • mobility
  • functional fitness
  • elderly
  • exercise

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Published Papers (1 paper)

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Research

11 pages, 932 KiB  
Article
The Prevalence of Falls Among Older Adults Living in Long-Term Care Facilities in the City of Cape Town
by Nabilah Ebrahim and Lloyd Leach
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(3), 432; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22030432 - 14 Mar 2025
Viewed by 553
Abstract
Falls are a prevalent health concern with a multi-factorial origin and causing numerous complications for older adults, especially those in low- and middle-income countries, such as South Africa. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of falls among older adults living in different [...] Read more.
Falls are a prevalent health concern with a multi-factorial origin and causing numerous complications for older adults, especially those in low- and middle-income countries, such as South Africa. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of falls among older adults living in different types of long-term care facilities in the City of Cape Town. A total of 258 males and females aged between 60 and 95 years were recruited. Data collection occurred from September 2021 to January 2022. Participants were categorized into low, moderate, or high fall risk using the fall-risk assessment tool. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics and fall prevalence. The chi-squared test determined significant associations between facility type, marital status, and educational level, and their relationship to falling. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient assessed associations between fall occurrence and various risk factors. Findings indicated that the prevalence of falls was 32.6%. Falls were significantly associated with behaviors such as agitation or confusion, and other unmentioned risk factors. Participants living in facilities run by non-profit organizations, and who had a lower education level or were single or widowed, had a higher fall prevalence. The use of anti-depressant and anti-diabetic medications was significantly linked to increased fall risk. These findings can inform future research and the development of strategies to prevent falls among older adults, particularly in LTC facilities. Full article
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