Relationship between self-reporting of visual impairment and falls in older adults participating in the 2015 SABE Colombia Survey

Abstract

Objective: To examine the link between self-reported visual impairment and falls among older adults using data from Colombia's Health, Well-being and Aging Survey (2015).

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of the SABE Colombia 2015 survey was conducted. The dependent variable was falls in the past year; independent variables included self-reported visual impairment, sociodemographic factors, environment, personal factors, and health conditions. A bivariate analysis was followed by a logistic regression to calculate ORs (p <0.05).

Results: Half of the participants reported visual impairment, and a third experienced falls in the past year, with over half falling multiple times. The average age was 69.6 years, predominantly women, living in urban areas, and most were dependent on daily activities. Common conditions included hypertension, dyslipidemia, and joint issues. Architectural hazards like stairs without railings, poor lighting, and obstacles were common. Multivariate analysis showed that outdoor lighting, railings, and leaving home were associated with fewer falls. Factors significantly increasing fall risk included uneven home entrances, furniture obstacles, dependence on daily activities, certain health conditions, and fear of falling.

Conclusion: Adequate lighting, railings, and unobstructed spaces were associated with a lower fall risk, while obstacles, functional dependence, and mobility-impairing conditions increased it among those with visual impairments.