The falls in the elderly are a frequent problem with significant physical, psychological and social consequences. The aim of this study was to make a systematic review about the consequences of falls in older people living in the community. The search was conducted between June and October 2008 in electronic databases Medline, Lilacs, PEDro and SciELO. Only articles in English, Portuguese and Spanish were considered for this review. It were found the following consequences: fractures, immobilization, soft-tissue injuries, contusions, sprains, wounds and abrasions, muscle and neurological injuries, occurrence of other diseases, pain, functional and physical activity decline, medical care, hospitalization, rehabilitation, fear of falling, restriction of activities, sadness, behavior change, feelings of powerlessness, decline in social activity, loss of autonomy and independence, change of home/environment, family rearrangement and death. Fractures and fear of falling were among the most cited consequences. The knowledge about physical, psychological and social consequences of falls in elderly people is important, because it will help to delineate preventive and rehabilitation strategies of these repercussions.
Elderly; Accidental Falls; Health of the Elderly; Accident Prevention
