Multidisciplinary approach to "accidental" falls in the elderly: a case report

Geriatr Gerontol Int. 2008 Jun;8(2):130-2. doi: 10.1111/j.1447-0594.2008.00459.x.

Abstract

Falls in the elderly are commonly and often wrongly identified as "accidental". We report a case of an elderly woman admitted to first aid for a trauma due to an accidental fall. Geriatric multidisciplinary evaluation revealed mild cognitive impairment associated with depressive symptoms; both findings made the anamnesis uncertain. Syncope algorithm was applied and "tachy-brady form of sick sinus syndrome" was diagnosed. Differential diagnosis between "accidental" and "apparently accidental" falls in elderly patients is very difficult but a multidisciplinary geriatric evaluation can clarify the correct diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls*
  • Aged
  • Algorithms
  • Carotid Sinus / physiopathology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Electrocardiography
  • Female
  • Geriatric Assessment*
  • Humans
  • Sick Sinus Syndrome / complications
  • Sick Sinus Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Syncope / diagnosis*