Prevalence, outcome and risk for falling in 155 ambulatory patients with rheumatic disease

Aim: Older people are at greater risk of falls and fall‐related adverse outcomes. Risk for falls is multifactorial, and relative importance of risk factors (RF) may vary according to the population studied. Although several population studies identify musculoskeletal factors as one of many RFs, there have been few studies of falls in populations with rheumatic disease. In this study we aim to assess the incidence of falls, prevalence of falls RFs and outcomes of falls in an ambulatory population with rheumatic disease. Methods: Using a retrospective cohort study design, consecutive patients attending rheumatology outpatient clinics completed a self‐administered falls questionnaire that investigated falls within the previous 12 months, risk for falling and fear of falling. Results: One hundred and fifty‐five patients, with a mean age of 59.7 years (SD 15.0) completed the survey. Seventy‐six patients (49%) reported one or more falls in the previous 12 months. Fifty‐eight (76.3%) reported an adverse outcome which included fracture in 12 (15.8%) and hospital attendance or admission in 20 (26.7%). Fear of falling was also common, being reported in 81 (52.3%) patients. Moderately or severe fear of falling was reported in 26 (16.8%) among the whole group and in 10% of the 78 patients who had not yet experienced a fall. Conclusions: The findings of this study highlight the high incidence of falls and fear of falling in patients with rheumatic disease and identify groups likely to be at higher risk. These patients should be considered for falls prevention programs that have been shown to reduce falls risk and improve self‐efficacy.