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Abstract

Falls among older people are a major public health issue. Increasing numbers of older people are accessing the internet for health-related information including information on falls risk and prevention. However, we are aware of no study that has assessed the quality of such websites. Using techniques for conducting systematic literature reviews, we evaluated English language websites offering falls related advice to members of the public. Forty-two websites were identified using popular search engines; these were assessed using evidence-based guidelines and codes of conduct on coverage of falls-related information, credibility, and senior friendliness. Overall, scores were poor for coverage of falls information and credibility, although they were higher for senior friendliness. Few of the websites had been recently updated, and none provided individually tailored advice. We conclude that websites have fallen short of their potential to provide accessible evidence-based information on the risks of falls and their prevention.

Available Versions of this Item

• The quality of English language websites offering falls prevention advice to older members of the public and their families. (deposited 15 Nov 2011 12:53)
  • The quality of English-language websites offering falls-prevention advice to older members of the public and their families. (deposited 02 Apr 2012 15:46) [Currently Displayed]