Path analysis to examine the effects of sociodemographic and health conditions on the incidence of falls in older adults

Background: Factors associated with the incidence of falls among older adults have been studied and evaluated to assess the magnitude of this issue in the field of public health. This is conducted by developing a model of relationships between independent and dependent variables based on theoretical frameworks.
Objective: To analyze a structural model explaining the relationships between sociodemographic factors, health conditions, and the incidence of falls.
Methods: An observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted. The sample consisted of older adults aged ≥55 years, both male and female, in Surabaya. A multiple-stage sampling technique was employed, with a total sample size of 240 older adults.
Results: Sociodemographic variables, namely age and sex, had direct effects, with path coefficients of P1= 0.198 (p-value <0.05) and P2= 0.208 (p-value <0.05), respectively. Age and sex are non-modifiable variables that directly influence the aging process. The path coefficients also indicated indirect effects of age and sex on falls. This suggests that modifiable factors, such as BMI and physical exercise, may help prevent falls (although the results were not statistically significant, p-value >0.05). The overall path diagram model indicates that health conditions in older age are important. Controlling BMI and engaging in regular physical exercise are identified as modifiable variables. 
Conclusion: Minimizing the risk of falls is associated with non-modifiable variables, particularly self-care practices.