The Lived Experiences of Family Caregivers in Caring for Older Adults at Risk of Falls: A Phenomenological Study.

Background: Falls in older adults are a major public health issue, particularly in home-based care settings. Family caregivers play a critical role in caring for older adults at risk of falls. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the lived experiences of family caregivers in facing challenges and preventive care strategies for older adults at risk of falling in Indonesia. Methods: A descriptive phenomenological study was conducted from December 2024 to April 2025 in Pekanbaru City, Riau Province, Indonesia, involving 12 family caregivers who provided care for older adults at risk of falling. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews which lasted between 45 and 70 minutes. The interviews continued until no new experiential meanings emerged, indicating data saturation. All interview recordings were transcribed verbatim and analyzed manually using Colaizzi's seven-step method. Results: The research identified five themes including: (1) stressors in caring for older adults, (2) declining health conditions of older adults, (3) fall-prone environments for older adults, (4) socio-cultural influences on care, and (5) fall prevention strategies. Conclusion: This study supports the need for family-centered, community-based, and culturally sensitive interventions to assist family caregivers in preventing falls among older adults.