Epidemiological Assessment of Accidents and Functional Limitations among Nursing Home Residents in Shiraz, Iran (2024)

Abstract Background With the rapid ageing of Iran’s population, accidents among institutionalised older adults represent a major public health concern. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, characteristics, and risk factors of accidents among elderly residents of nursing homes in Shiraz, Iran, during 2024, with particular emphasis on functional limitations. Methods A cross-sectional census-based study was conducted in all seven nursing homes in Shiraz, involving 550 residents aged ≥60 years. Data were collected through structured interviews, review of medical records, caregiver reports, and an Accident Form. Accidents occurring during the previous year were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and associations between accident occurrence and participant characteristics were examined using chi-square tests. Results Overall, 72.0% of residents experienced at least one accident during the study period. Slipping was the leading cause, and bathrooms and toilets were the most frequent locations. Contusion or bruising was the most common outcome. Mobility limitation was the only factor significantly associated with accident occurrence (p < 0.001), whereas age, gender, marital status, and educational level showed no significant associations. Conclusions Accidents were common among nursing home residents in Shiraz and were strongly associated with mobility limitation. These findings highlight the importance of addressing functional impairments alongside environmental hazards through targeted ergonomic modifications and mobility-support interventions.