Developmental Coordination Disorder: A Hidden Epidemic of Falls
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| Title: | Developmental Coordination Disorder: A Hidden Epidemic of Falls |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Johnny V. V. Parr (ORCID |
| Source: | Journal of Motor Learning and Development. 2026 14(1). |
| Availability: | Human Kinetics, Inc. 1607 North Market Street, Champaign, IL 61820. Tel: 800-474-4457; Fax: 217-351-1549; e-mail: info@hkusa.com; Web site: https://journals.humankinetics.com/view/journals/jmld/jmld-overview.xml |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 13 |
| Publication Date: | 2026 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Descriptors: | Developmental Disabilities, Perceptual Motor Coordination, Adults, Parents, Children, Accidents, Injuries, Environmental Influences, Anxiety, Well Being, Participation, Mental Health, Social Life, Behavior Modification, Intervention |
| DOI: | 10.1123/jmld.2025-0043 |
| ISSN: | 2325-3193 2325-3215 |
| Abstract: | This study is the first to systematically investigate falls across the lifespan in Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted an online survey co-developed with a Participant Involvement and Engagement group, assessing fall frequency, causes, injuries, fall-related anxiety, and psychosocial consequences. The survey was completed by adults with DCD (n = 115), parents of children with DCD (n = 99), typically developing (TD) adults (n = 81), and parents of TD children (n = 86). Falls were significantly more frequent in DCD, with 26% of DCD adults falling one to two times per month (vs. 3% TD) and 55% of children with DCD falling one to two times per week (vs. 23% TD). Falls were caused by a wide range of activities (e.g., walking), environmental obstacles (e.g., uneven surfaces, stairs), and cognitive factors (e.g., multitasking). Fall-related injuries--including fractures--were more prevalent in the DCD groups, alongside higher fall-anxiety, reduced social participation, and lower activity engagement. Overall, falls in DCD are frequent, injurious, anxiety-provoking, and detrimental to well-being. Despite this, DCD is absent from fall prevention guidelines. Urgent action is needed to integrate fall risk screening and targeted interventions into clinical and public health frameworks. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2026 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1508709 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | This study is the first to systematically investigate falls across the lifespan in Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted an online survey co-developed with a Participant Involvement and Engagement group, assessing fall frequency, causes, injuries, fall-related anxiety, and psychosocial consequences. The survey was completed by adults with DCD (n = 115), parents of children with DCD (n = 99), typically developing (TD) adults (n = 81), and parents of TD children (n = 86). Falls were significantly more frequent in DCD, with 26% of DCD adults falling one to two times per month (vs. 3% TD) and 55% of children with DCD falling one to two times per week (vs. 23% TD). Falls were caused by a wide range of activities (e.g., walking), environmental obstacles (e.g., uneven surfaces, stairs), and cognitive factors (e.g., multitasking). Fall-related injuries--including fractures--were more prevalent in the DCD groups, alongside higher fall-anxiety, reduced social participation, and lower activity engagement. Overall, falls in DCD are frequent, injurious, anxiety-provoking, and detrimental to well-being. Despite this, DCD is absent from fall prevention guidelines. Urgent action is needed to integrate fall risk screening and targeted interventions into clinical and public health frameworks. |
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| ISSN: | 2325-3193 2325-3215 |
| DOI: | 10.1123/jmld.2025-0043 |
