Rehabilitation Nursing in the prevention of falls in community-dwelling elderly people with a fear of falling

Introduction: Falls in the home represent an important public health problem due to the ageing of the population. They are associated with physical, emotional and social complications, significantly affecting the quality of life of older people. Objective: To describe the interventions of nurses specializing in rehabilitation nursing to prevent falls in community-dwelling elderly people with a fear of falling. Method: Theoretical-reflective article based on a search of scientific literature, using descriptors related to the theme. Results: Multiple intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors were identified as predictors of falls. The interventions of rehabilitation nurses are organized into three phases: risk identification; prevention of falls and fear of falling; and reduction of associated injuries. They contribute not only to promoting independence and maximizing functionality by training remaining abilities and/or using adaptive strategies, but also to enhancing autonomy by empowering older people and their caregivers. Conclusions: Nurses specializing in rehabilitation nursing are essential in the prevention of falls in the home setting, and the importance of an individualized, community-based and transdisciplinary approach stands out. It is suggested that more scientific evidence be produced to reinforce the responsibility and specificity of intervention in this area.