Did you know?
More than one out of four older people falls each year, but less than half tell their doctor.
One out of five falls causes a serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury.
Risk factors
Taking certain medications such as benzodiazepines, opioids, anticonvulsants, antihistamines.
Certain medical conditions such as seizure, stroke, diabetes leading to dizziness or lightheadedness.
Vision, hearing, or balance difficulties.
Poor mobility due to aging, injuries leg or foot pain or poor foot wear.
Weakness anywhere in the body.
Symptoms To Look Out for After a Fall
Bleeding or bruising.
Changes in vision or pupils.
Headache.
Lightheadedness, confusion, or memory changes.
Neck pain.
Numbness, tingling, loss of sensation or strength anywhere in the body.
Ongoing pain.
Complications
Muscle or joint pain.
Open cuts or wounds.
Fractures in various parts of body.
Hemorrhage: internal, external, intracranial.
Traumatic brain injury.
Treatment
Check for any injuries that may need medical attention or possibly surgery.
Medications should be reviewed by a doctor to avoid any medications that cause falls.
Strength and balance exercises should be done after falls to prevent any in the future.
Psychological support should be given to the elderly after a fall to regain confidence.
Prevention
Falls are not a normal part of aging—they can be prevented.
Do exercises that make your legs stronger and improve your balance. Get involved in strength building activities.
Tell your doctor if you have fallen, if you feel unsteady when standing or walking, or if you’re afraid you might fall.
Manage your medications with your doctor, avoiding medications that increase confusion or falls.
Have your vision and hearing checked yearly.
Make your home safer to navigate:
Remove things you can trip over (like papers, books, clothes, and shoes) from stairs and places where you walk.
Remove small throw rugs or use double sided tape to keep the rugs from slipping.
Keep items you use often in cabinets you can reach easily without using a step stool
Have grab bars put in next to and inside the tub, and next to the toilet.
Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and on shower floors.
Improve the lighting in your home. As you get older, you need brighter lights to see well. Hang light-weight curtains or shades to reduce glare.
Have handrails and lights installed on all staircases.
Wear proper footwear and shoes that fit well.
Be careful with wet or watery surfaces to avoid slipping.
Stay well hydrated.
During large events and gatherings do the following:
Take your time to walk slowly and stand up slowly from sitting position.
Don’t shy away from asking for assistance with walking.
Make sure to use assistive devices such as cane or walker.
Avoid walking in areas that are not well lit or have uneven surfaces.
