The impact of falls among older adults has long been a concern, and recent research from Brigham and Women’s Hospital highlights the seriousness of this issue, as falls significantly increase the risk of Alzheimer’s and related dementias. A study published in JAMA Network Open found that among 2 million older adults who experienced a traumatic injury, those who fell had a 21 percent higher likelihood of receiving a future dementia diagnosis, indicating a critical need for intervention and improved patient follow-ups.
After analyzing Medicare Fee-for-Service data from a few years ago, researchers have identified a concerning trend: half of the injured patients were hurt from falls, and they are receiving dementia diagnoses at an alarming rate within the year following these incidents. Molly Jarman, assistant professor at Brigham's Department of Surgery and deputy director of the Center for Surgery and Public Health, noted this pattern, to tell The Harvard Gazette, "The relationship between falls and dementia appears to be a two-way street."
With more than 14 million older adults reporting falls each year, the study's findings represent real-world crises affecting many families and individuals. The consequences of falls can include functional decline, loss of independence, and even death, highlighting the urgent need for cognitive screenings following an injury. The research team recommends that these assessments be conducted whenever an older adult is treated in the emergency room or hospitalized due to a fall-related injury.
However, there is a limitation in the healthcare delivery system regarding screenings for cognitive decline after an injury. Alexander J. Ordoobadi, a resident physician in Brigham's Department of Surgery and a key contributor to this research, noted that many older adults do not have consistent access to primary care or geriatric expertise. He pointed out that a significant issue is the lack of accountability for conducting follow-up cognitive impairment screenings, particularly in trauma or emergency settings.
This issue extends beyond early dementia identification; it highlights a broader gap in geriatric care. The study calls for an increase in the number of clinicians trained to address the complexities of healthcare for older adults, including cognitive assessments after fall-related injuries. Emphasizing this point, Jarman pointed out to The Harvard Gazette, "Our study highlights the opportunity to intervene early and the need for more clinicians who can provide comprehensive care for older adults." Such proactive measures could transform the management of cognitive health in the aging population, potentially resulting in more timely and effective treatments for dementia.
