ABSTRACT

The korea is aging society and older adult's healthy and independent life is getting more necessary and important.Falls are the most serious health problems in elderly population. It lead to premature death, physical injury, immobilization, psychological problems, social limitation, and long-term disability.Consequently, prevention of falling is important about personal quality of life as well as decrease of social resource.The purpose of this article was to review risk factor and intervention that minimize risk of falling.Risk factors for falling are classified as intrinsic or extrinsic. Increased age, a history of falls, impaired balance, poor muscle strength and slow walking speed are examples of intrinsic factors. Other intrinsic risk factors include age-related physiologic changes and chronic conditions of various body systems.The external approach for falling is home modification of architectural barrier by occupational therapist. Older adults benefit from exercise of various type, including muscle strengthening exercises, flexibility training, aerobic exercises, walking to increase muscle strength and to improve balance and gait velocity. The various assistive devices and protective equipments used for prevention. Beside, emotional and cognitive behavioral approach help prevention.Falling is due to complex causes and therefore, prevention is required comprehensive approach.