Mapping Fall Risks in Home Environments: Perceptions and Observations from Older Adults and Researchers in Finland

Abstract

Falls at home are a major cause of injury and mortality among older people. This research investigated the alignment between older adults’ perceptions and research observations of home-related fall risks via literature review, interviews of older adults, and field observations in their home environments. The results show a clear mismatch in the kind and especially number of risks noted. Also, some risks were brought up by older people but not found in literature. This highlights the importance of raising awareness of fall risks among older people, and of more inclusive home assessment processes. Broadening the concept of home environment in research is also needed.