Falls incidence in Chinese older people has been reported to be approximately half that of Caucasian populations. It is possible that the falls risk factor profile may differ significantly between Caucasian and Chinese populations, and a better understanding of this reported difference in incidence and associated risk factors may influence potential approaches to future intervention. A systematic literature review was conducted using the EMBase, Medline, Chinese Electronic Periodical Services, and WanFangdata databases to collate and evaluate the studies that have addressed the incidence and risk factors for falls in Chinese older people. Twenty-one studies conducted in China, Hong Kong, Macao, Singapore, and Taiwan met the inclusion criteria. Fall rates ranged between 14.7% and 34% per annum (median 18%). In the four prospective studies, injuries were reported by 60% to 75% of those reporting falls, with fractures constituting 6% to 8% of all injuries. One hundred thirty-two variables were identified as fall risk factors, with commonly reported factors being female sex, older age, use of multiple medications, gait instability, fear of falling, and decline in activities of daily living. The findings reveal a consistently lower incidence of self-reported falls in Chinese older people than in Caucasian older people, although the types and prevalence of risk factors were not dissimilar from those found in studies of Caucasian older people. A greater understanding of the health, behavioral, and lifestyle factors that influence fall rates in Chinese populations is required for elucidating fall prevention strategies in Chinese and non-Chinese older people.

The use of cardiovascular medications in older people did not increase the risk of falls, and the use of ASBMs was associated with lower fall risk. The mechanisms for this apparent protective effect are unclear and appear not to be directly related to muscle strength. More research is required to elucidate the possible protective effects of certain cardiovascular medications in relation to falls in older people.

Approximately 15% of fallers had unexplained falls, which were more likely to result in injuries. Depressive symptoms and orthostatic hypotension increased the risk of unexplained falls, whereas cognitive deficits and sensorimotor and balance impairments did not. Future research should investigate whether psychotherapy and physical exercise to improve mood and medication reviews and nonpharmacological therapies for the treatment of orthostatic hypotension and depression are effective at reducing the risk of unexplained falls in older people.