ABS 062: The Risk of Falls in Older Adults Receiving Hemodialysis

Merlin Emily ¹ , Zuniga Ezekiel ¹ , Guerrero Dania ¹ , Korobkin Jessica ¹ , Balantrapu Swathi ¹ , Alfaro Ana J. ¹ , Liu Christine ¹

¹ Stanford University, CA, USA

Van Wickle (2025) Volume 1, ABS 062

Introduction: In older adults, falls cause injury, decrease quality of life, and worsen mortality. One especially vulnerable population is older adults receiving hemodialysis for kidney failure. Yet data on falls in this population have come from samples with limited diversity, despite the fact that kidney failure disproportionately impacts underserved populations. To address this gap, we examined the prevalence of falls in a diverse population of older adults receiving hemodialysis and assessed the overlap of fall prevalence with; 1) limitations in physical function, and 2) fall hazards in the home environment.
Methods: We used data from a cross-sectional study of English and Spanish-speaking older adults (≥ 60 years). Participants were asked, “When was the last time you had a fall?” (Range 0-12 months). We used the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB, range 0-12 points) to assess balance, walking speed, and leg function, with ≤ 6 points indicating poor physical function. The Home Falls and Accidents Screening Tool (Range 0-24 hazards) was used to assess fall hazards at home.
Results: Among 80 persons (mean age 73.7 ± 9.4 years), 41% were female, and 30% identified as Asian, 10% as Black, 6% as Multiracial, 24% as Other, and 29% as White. Overall, 50% had a fall in the last 12 months. The mean SPPB was 5.6 ± 2.7 (S.D.) points, and 57% had poor physical function. The mean number of fall hazards was 6.9 ± 4.7 hazards. 38% of participants who had a fall also had poor physical function as determined by the SPPB.
Discussion: In a diverse sample of older adults receiving hemodialysis, we confirmed that falls are common and often overlaps with poor physical function. To prevent falls and their associated complications, clinicians should consider incorporating assessments for physical function and home safety during visits with older adults receiving hemodialysis.