Journal of clinical medicine
Anticholinergic Burden and Falls in Older Adults: The Role of Functional Status
By Mutlay F and Das M.
Abstract
Background
Falls are a major geriatric problem associated with functional decline, loss of independence, and increased healthcare utilization. Although anticholinergic burden and impaired functional status are recognized risk factors, their combined association with recurrent falls remains unclear. This study evaluated how anticholinergic burden and functional status relate to recurrent falls in older adults.
Methods
This retrospective cross-sectional study included 347 patients aged ≥65 years who underwent comprehensive geriatric assessment. Anticholinergic burden was assessed with the Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden (ACB) score, functional status with the Barthel Index and Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) Scale, and comorbidity with the Charlson Comorbidity Index. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic analyses were performed; the interaction between ACB ≥ 2 and functional impairment was also tested.