Development of a framework for the integrated management of falls within the residential care home setting for older persons in Malta : an evidence-based approach

Abstract

Falls are a major concern for older persons living in residential care home settings, often leading to significant injuries, and affecting their quality of life. Falls management is part of the governance framework at all levels of care in a healthcare system: macro, meso and micro levels. Residential care homes should implement a holistic and comprehensive falls management system to reduce the rate of falls and prevent fall-related injuries. This study aimed to develop a falls management framework for older persons living in the Maltese residential care home setting, which is currently lacking. A critically appraised topic (CAT) of the literature was conducted to build a conceptual falls management framework. The conceptual framework was evaluated by comparison with different international falls management frameworks. Evidence from stakeholders at different levels (regulators, care home managers, healthcare professionals and residents) was collected. Participants prioritised the elements, categories and components represented in the conceptual model. The participants older persons had a different perspective compared to the other stakeholders, when prioritising the elements. The results were used to develop an evidence-based falls management framework for Malta.