Geospatial distribution of fall-related hospitalization incidence in Texas

AIntroduction With the rapid growth of the aging U.S. population, the incidence of falls and fall-related injuries is expected to rise. We examined incidence and characteristics of fall-related hospitalizations (falls) among Texans aged 50 and older, by geography and across time. Method We calculated fall-related hospitalization incidence rates (65 and older), identified fall 'hot spots,' and examined availability of fall-prevention programming. Results The incidence of fall-related hospitalizations for older adults increased by nearly 20% from 2007 to 2011. There were clusters of 'hot spot' counties throughout the state, many of which lack fall prevention programs. Conclusions Increased efforts are needed to identify older adults at elevated risk for falling and develop referral systems for promoting evidence-based fall prevention programs at multiple levels accounting for geographic settings. Practical applications Geospatial investigations can inform strategic planning efforts to develop clinical-community partnerships to offer fall prevention programming in high risk areas.