Analysis of Fall Risk Factors in Community-Dwelling People with Dementia Using Propensity Score Matching

Objective : With the advent of a super-aged society, falls among people with dementia (PwD) have emerged as a significant health risk. This study systematically analyzes fall risk factors among community-dwelling PwD using propensity score matching, considering complex risk factors including cognitive-physical decline, home environment, and caregiving characteristics. Methods : Data from the 2022 Long-term Care Survey were analyzed, focusing on community-dwelling beneficiaries aged 65-89 years. Propensity score matching was employed to adjust for characteristic differences between PwD and non-dementia groups, with 303 participants in each group. Chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses were conducted. Results : PwD showed lower pr evalence of str oke, hyper tension, back pain, and f r actur es but higher hyperlipidemia compared to the non-dementia group. Among PwD, fall risk was 2.7 times higher with eye diseases, 2.9 times higher with recent hospitalization, and 3.1 times higher with severe caregiver burden in daily living support. Conclusion : Fall prevention for PwD requires management of eye conditions and post-hospitalization recovery. In particular, caregiver burden was identified as the most significant risk factor. Therefore, it is necessary to implement staged caregiver support programs and establish community-based integrated care systems.