Abstract:

The risk of falls by ageing persons (55 years or older) is increased by physical elements within the built environment. Many environmental factors are considered high-risk hazards that can lead to serious injuries such as hip fractures. This article lists the design features most often mentioned in the literature as possible contribuing factors to falls that result in hip injury. In addition, recommendations for research to assisting designers, architects, planners, facilities managers, and health care providers in designing the physical environment that meet specific requirements of individual users are offered. With concrete empirical research the risk of falls and consequent injuries can be reduced, making the built environment safer and more user friendly.