Memory Loss and Missteps: Investigating Fall Risks in Alzheimer's and Dementia Patients

Abstract Background: Degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia are significant health concerns among older adults in the United States, contributing substantially to the high incidence of falls in this population. This study aims to investigate the incidence and prevalence of falls among older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and dementia and explore the association between these conditions and the occurrence of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from 17,000 older adults aged 65 and above, arrived to the hospital with fall related injuries, obtained from the TriNetX network at Virginia Commonwealth University Health System (VCUHS) between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2023. Data included demographic information, diagnosis codes (ICD-10), and details on falls, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and TBIs. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were performed using TriNetX analytical tools. Results: The study revealed that older adults with Alzheimer's disease (incidence proportion: 3.11%, prevalence: 4.81%) and dementia (incidence proportion: 12.46%, prevalence: 17.06%) had a significantly higher incidence of falls compared to those without these conditions. Females showed a slightly higher incidence of falls than males. Logistic regression analysis indicated that patients with Alzheimer's disease had a reduced risk of TBIs (OR=0.765, 95% CI: 0.588-0.996, p=0.047), while those with unspecified dementia had an increased risk (OR=1.161, 95% CI: 1.002-1.346, p=0.047). Conclusions: Our study reveals a higher risk of falls and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in older adults with dementia compared to Alzheimer's disease. These findings underscore the need for targeted fall prevention strategies and educational programs for caregivers. Refining risk assessment tools and implementing evidence-based interventions can enhance patient safety and improve outcomes for older adults with cognitive impairments.