The potential of consequences of falls in the elderly for health, independence and overall life enjoyment can not be overstated. A report published by The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDC in the United States of America states that out of every four individuals who are above the age of 65, one would fall and that falls are alarmingly the most frequent reason for fatal and non-fatal injuries within that age group. The report also mentions that, each year, there are about 3 million emergency department visits due to older people falls!
If you’re caring for an elderly parent or grandparent at home, we understand if you’ve become a little worried. However, there are a number of measures that can be taken to overcome and decrease the likelihood of those falls happening. This article looks into the major reasons that result in falls for older people and provides helpful tips as to how one can reduce the risk of falls of their loved ones.
Why are Falls in the Elderly so Common?
Physical Changes Due to the Processes of Aging
Many physiological and physical changes that happen as the human body ages might lead to an increased risk of falls in the elderly, including:
The weakening of muscles and balance dysfunctions: Muscle weakness is common with age as well as balance issues that may increase the risk for falls.
Chronic medical conditions & diseases: Chronic illnesses like diabetes, arthritis, and Parkinson’s might lead to problems with movement due to the stiffness and significant changes in the joints caused by these conditions.
Sensory decline: The decline in vision and hearing impairment with age could result in a lack of awareness of the immediate environment with things such as chairs, tables, and other obstacles leading an old person to trip and fall with sometimes severe injuries sustained as a result.
Medication side effects: Some tranquilizers, blood pressure drugs, and antidepressants can also lead to drowsiness, modified vision, or dizziness. This is especially true in seniors, who are often on multiple medications for different health conditions.
Environmental Factors Increasing Risk of Falls in Elderly
Overcrowded or poorly illuminated places: Items such as rugs, electrical cords, or furniture in walkways are high-risk items, leading to tripping and subsequent falls, especially when there isn’t enough lighting in the room.
Troubling surfaces: Things like wet bathroom floors, poorly fitting shoes, or overly thick carpets can all add to the risk of falls in the elderly.
Not Enough Elderly-Proofing: due to their advanced age, the elderly generally need support when moving around or up and down the stairs, which can be dangerous at times especially if the staircase lacks handlebars or handrails.
How Dangerous are Falls in the Elderly?
The consequences of accidental falls can be dangerous at any age, especially so in the elderly population. They can range widely from a simple bruise to severe brain injury. Here are some of the most common injuries resulting from falls in the elderly:
Fractures and Bone Breaks
Of all the injuries, the most common outcomes of a fall tend to be fractures suffered around the hip, wrist, or spine. Hip fractures in particular can be extremely serious because they may necessitate an operation and require extensive physical therapy. Fractured hip are associated with a higher chance of death owing to have extensive the surgery required is, and some patients even face greater difficulties during recovery while some have complications during rehabilitation.
Head Injuries
One of the consequences of falling is sustaining an injury to the head and suffering from a concussion or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) that can result in cognitive impairment and severe complication in memory retention. Sometimes, there can even be more dangerous neurological complications.
Loss of Independence
The fall alone cause patients physical and emotional fatigue that may hinder them from going back to their normal life, resulting in them not being able to attend to their daily routine and activities. In such cases, the individual may have to rely on an supporting person to help them complete daily activities, like taking a shower, putting on clothes or eating food.
Fear of Falling Again
Falls may have a profound psychological effect because they alter an elderly person’s previously rational perception of the environment. One of the negative effects that the elderly are focused on during the recovery processes is the feeling of fear that they might fall again. Not wanting to fall can result in people becoming less active, which makes muscle wasting worse and increases the chances of another fall.
Preventing Falls in The Elderly
While falls are common among older adults, there are many effective strategies to reduce the risk and improve safety. Here are some key prevention measures:
Enhance Power & Balance
Strength, flexibility, and balance-promoting routine exercises are one of the best ways to prevent the occurrence of falls. Tai chi, yoga, strength training, and walking are great exercises that can enhance multiple aspects such as coordination, muscle strength, and posture. An exercise program specifically designed for older adults by a physical therapist can help this population in improving their balance and mobility.
Regular Visions and Health Monitoring:
Reducing the risk of the occurrence of falls can be achieved by performing routine eye screenings that help to monitor and detect early signs of vision decline so corrective measures can be implemented early on before it affects the person’s safety. These measures include the use of eyeglasses for enhancing vision, and sometimes surgery might be required like in the case of cataracts.
Prescription Medications Review
As we mentioned earlier, the elders are usually on a range of drugs, which also means a lot of side effects, including impaired vision and balance. We recommend checking with the treating or supervising physician regularly if you notice some changes in an elderly person’s behavior or balance. The doctor can reduce the dosage of some drugs, and they may change the medication to one with less side effects.
Wear Proper Footwear
Encouraging seniors to wear well-fitted, non-skid soles can assist in balance and decrease the chances of falling down. Avoid slippers and high-heeled shoes.
Use Assistive Devices
In cases where more support is required, consider the use of tools like canes, walkers, and stair lifts, which can lessen the probability of falling. It is necessary that these tools are used correctly by training the training person on the proper way to use them before allowing them to use them independently.
Falls are a serious and growing concern for the elderly, with far-reaching consequences that affect both physical and mental health. However, many falls are preventable. By addressing risk factors, improving strength and balance, and making necessary modifications to the home environment, older adults can significantly reduce their risk of falling and enjoy a higher quality of life.
We hope today’s article was helpful to you and if you need a nurse or caregiver for extra help taking care of your elderly loved ones, our 24/7 home nursing services are available across the UAE. Give us a call at 050 873 8150 (WhatsApp also available on the same number)
