Definition of fall: An event which results in a person coming to rest inadvertently on the ground or floor or other lower level.
WHO: Anyone can have a fall, but older people are more vulnerable and likely to fall.
Around 1 in 3 adults over 65 and half of people over 80 will have at least one fall a year.
CAUSES: There are many causes of falls:
- Balance problems and muscle weakness
- Vision problems – new glasses – changing to varifocals
- a long-term health condition, such as hear disease, dementia, low blood pressure
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
- floors are wet, such as in the bathroom, or recently polished
- the lighting in the room is dim
- rugs or carpets are not properly secured
- the person reaches for storage areas, such as a cupboard, or is going down stairs
- the person is rushing to get to the toilet during the day or at night
- Climbing ladders
In older people, falls can be particularly problematic because osteoporosis is a fairly common problem.
It can develop in both men and women, particularly in people who smoke, drink excessive amounts of alcohol, take steroid medicine, or have a family history of hip fractures.
But older women are most at risk because osteoporosis is often associated with the hormonal changes that occur during the menopause.
SYMPTOMS: Most falls do not result in serious injury. But there’s always a risk that a fall could lead to soft tissue injuries or broken bones, and it can cause the person to lose confidence.
Loss of confidence and the fear of falling can lead to people becoming less independent and socially isolated.
DIAGNOSIS:
A full assessment should be undertaken looking at the circumstances of the falls and evaluation of risk factors. A careful medication review is of great importance, as are functional and environmental assessments.
Physical examination should include gait assessment, sensory assessment (including hearing and vision), and neurologic and musculoskeletal assessment, as well as depression and cognitive impairment screening. The examination should also include a review of footwear and gait aid appropriateness.
TREATMENT:
There are ways you can reduce your risk of having a fall, including making simple changes to your home and doing exercises to improve your strength and balance.
This can take the form of simple activities such as walking and dancing, or specialist training programmes or Tai Chi or Pilates.
MORE INFO:
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/exercise/falls-prevention/
