Important information on Fall Prevention
Each year in the United States, one in three people over the age of 65 has a fall. In the age group over 80, the number increases to one in two. For an older adult, the consequences of falling can range from minor injury to devastating trauma, even leading to death in some cases. Those who fracture a hip or have other major trauma requiring surgery are at great risk for complications that lead to the need for a higher level of care. Only half of older adults hospitalized for a broken hip can return home or live on their own after the injury. In addition to physical injury, the psychological consequences of falling include fear and depression, both of which increase the risk of having another fall. According to the Centers for Disease control the annual cost of falls is greater than $19 billon and climbing.
Obviously, the best way to minimize the impact of falls is to prevent them altogether. This requires awareness of the problems associated with falling and a proactive plan. The causes of falls and their prevention are a matter of intense public health concern. The problem is complex and requires individual attention and planning.
Causes of Falls
Reasons for falls are many and vary from one person to the next and from one fall to the next. In many cases, a combination of factors is involved. Falls can be caused by intrinsic factors- those occurring inside the body, or extrinsic factors-those occurring from an outside cause. In reality, most falls have both intrinsic and extrinsic factors.
As we age, a number of changes can occur which contribute to an increased likelihood of falling. Most notably the sense of balance can change and reaction time slows down a bit, therefore regaining footing after tripping becomes more difficult. Many health conditions can contribute to this problem including arthritis, neuropathy (often present in diabetes), low vision caused by macular degeneration or glaucoma, hearing loss, dizziness and neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease. Many falls occur at night when arising from sleep may render a person confused, drowsy and/or in a hurry to get to the bathroom.
Medications can contribute to fall risk because of side effects or drug interactions. People who take more than four medications are more likely to fall. Changes in blood pressure that occur with position changes-called postural hypotension- can be caused by some medications or by certain conditions. Changing positions too quickly can lead to lightheadedness and falling. Older people with muscle weakness are more likely to fall than those who maintain their muscle strength, flexibility and endurance.
The majority of falls occur at home. There can be a number of hazards in the home that need to be addressed. Common ones include clutter, throw rugs or loose carpet, slippery tubs or floors and poorly lit areas. Wearing improper footwear such as backless shoes, slippers, smooth leather soles or high heels can contribute to having a fall.
Focus on Prevention
Preventing falls requires a pro-active approach on everyone’s part. Following are recommendations for all adults over the age of 65:
• Remain physically active. Staying strong through daily activity helps maintain muscles that control balance,
keeps you more alert and keeps bones strong. Regular exercise gives you an edge, providing a 25%
reduction in your risk of having a fall. Focus on doing things that help balance such as Tai Chi. If your
community offers balance classes, attend them.
• Have your vision checked annually. Vision contributes to balance by giving feedback to the brain.
Overcoming balance deficits related to low vision can be done, but requires early and careful intervention.
• Have your hearing checked annually. Hearing loss can be a risk factor for falling.
• Review your medications with your health care provider at each visit. Bring all of your medication bottles
with you when you go to your health care provider’s office. Ask if you are taking anything that can lead to
falls and discuss alternatives.
• Use assistive devices if prescribed by your health care provider or therapist. Have your assistive device
checked periodically to be sure it is in good repair.
• Wear proper fitting, safe foot wear inside and outside of your home. Do not go barefoot or use slippers.
• Ask your health care provider to check your blood pressure when you stand up. Some older adults may
have a drop in blood pressure when standing up after a meal, and some medicines can cause a major drop in
blood pressure on standing. Change positions slowly especially when rising from bed.
• Familiarize yourself with your surroundings prior to walking in order to avoid hazards.
• Do a home safety check or have someone from ISC do one for you.
The cost of falling for an older adult can be great. Prevent falls before they occur by following these simple suggestions. For more information see the following websites:
• http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/duip/preventadultfalls.htm- Facts from the CDC on falls
• http://nihseniorhealth.gov/falls/toc.html- Instructions for older adults about falls and their prevention.
Brookdale Senior Living