Journal of Public Health and Development · May 8, 2026
Factors Affecting Falls in the Dependent Elderly in Sukhothai Province, Thailand
By Rakdaeng R, Wongwat R, Noosorn N
This cross-sectional survey aimed to study factors affecting falls in dependent elderly individuals in Sukhothai Province, Thailand, both in urban and rural areas. The study was conducted between October and November 2024, and 447 participants aged 60 years and older were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using standardized, interviewer-administered questionnaires that included demographics, health status, sleep, physical activity, and home environment. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were used to find significant predictors of falls. The results of the study showed that a majority of the informants had a history of falls (60.2%). The factors that could predict the chance of falls in the dependent elderly group with statistical significance at the 0.05 level were history of chronic illness (Adj OR = 9.52), insufficient Sleep (Adj OR = 5.90), area with different levels (Adj OR = 5.58), lack of exercise (Adj OR = 5.15), slippery floor (Adj OR = 4.63) and income inadequacy (Adj OR = 3.15). In conclusion, the management of risk factors affecting falls involves biology, economics and society, behaviors, and environment. These factors should be integrated into health promotion, environmental management, and income support strategies to effectively reduce the fall rate in the dependent elderly group and improve the quality of life of the elderly in the long term.