Immobility and falls

Immobility is a common problem for hospitalized older adults. Excessive bed rest results in multiple adverse physiologic consequences and may contribu te to functional decline and increased risk for falls in the hospital setti ng. About 2% of hospitalized older adults fall during hospitalization. Risk factors for in-hospital falls includes cognitive impairment, mobility impa irment, specific diagnoses, multiple comorbidities, and psychotropic medica tions. Appropriate actions to prevent immobility and falls include increasi ng exercise and activity levels, improving the hospital environment, and de creasing the use of psychotropic medications. Bed alarms and increased supe rvision for high-risk patients also may help prevent falls.