The Elderly’s Environment in Residence at Risk of Falls: A Case study of Maeka sub-district, Muang District, Phayao.

Abstract

The research deals with the study of the elders’ falls in the residence in which the location is Maeka sub district, Muag district, Phayao aiming at studying physical aspect, activity area, and the falls, including a guideline to reduce the risk in falls of the elders in the residence. The research tool employed is a questionnaire. Findings are summarized as follows: The elders are rather strong and healthy with regular medicine and most of them have eyesight problem. The accident in the residence is caused by faint and location where accidence taking place is a living room and kitchen respectively. Most of accident occur between 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The elders mostly live with their children in ground base of a single- two storied house. A bed is attached to the wall and a another side is open with a window near the side of a bed. Most bathrooms are in the house. The number of sitting toilets and squatting latrine are similar in number. Chairs are used in most sitting and reception areas. Most kitchens are in the house. Charcoal stove (on floor) is also used. The floor of most houses is built from a strong material. The area with loose powder or sand causes the most slippery. Different levels cause the most stumbling. The floor with clutter causes the most falls. Besides, most houses have railings. This can be seen that the environment in the residence affecting the risk varies in many ways, depending on usage behavior, including the context of the accommodation. Therefore, the preparation of the living conditions of the elderly, taking into account the form of use and the limitations found in use will make us aware of the problems leading to suitable and consistent with the area. This includes individual limitations in order to reduce the risk of fall in the elderly person in a shelter.