Falls in Older Adults: The Role of the Nurse Practitioner

Abstract

Falls among older adults represent a public health crisis with increasing death rates. Nurse practitioners face a dual challenge: managing acute postfall injuries and preventing future occurrences. While immediate assessment for hidden injuries using advanced imaging is critical, long-term prevention is paramount. The key to reducing fall-related morbidity lies in applying the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths, and Injuries framework. By utilizing this screening tool and performance-based tests, including the Timed Up and Go, 30-second chair stand, and 4-stage balance tests, nurse practitioners can identify and address modifiable risk factors, shifting care toward proactive prevention.