Association Between Psychotropic Medication and Falls Among Older Rehabilitation Inpatients with Varied Activity Levels

Abstract

Background Falls are a common risk in older rehabilitation inpatients, with psychotropic medications potentially increasing fall risk. This study aims to assess the correlation between falls and the use of psychotropic medications in older inpatients at different activity levels in rehabilitation departments. Methods A multi-center cross-sectional study analyzed patient characteristics, medications, fall incidents, and physical levels using the Longshi Scale. Chi-square tests, ANOVA, and binary logistic regression were applied. Results This study enrolled a total of 6,425 patients, among them 711 cases (11.07%) experienced falls, and 333 cases (5.18%) had a history of psychotropic medication use. Psychotropic use was an independent fall risk factor P  < 0.05), with significant correlation in bedridden (OR = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.18–2.64) and domestic (OR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.12–3.53) groups, but not in the community group ( P  > 0.05). Conclusion Bedridden and domestic group individuals, as per Longshi Scale classification, are vulnerable to psychotropic-induced falls. Targeted prevention and monitoring are necessary for these groups. Trial Registration The study is approved by the Regional ethical committee and registered at Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ( https://www.chictr.org.cn ), ChiCTR-2000034067.