BLOG 301 FALLING

BLOG 301 FALLING

When we fall it isn’t exactly something we planned for or meant to do, but it happens. Falling happens especially as we age, and sometime the resulting injuries can be major setbacks. People over the age of 65 are at the highest risk. In fact, 35% of this 65 and older population experiences at least one fall per year. The risk increases even more with people over age 70. At least 45% of this age range falls at least once per year. Three million of these adults go to the emergency room each year and then 800,000 end up being admitted to the hospital. Even though falls are unpredictable, there are preventative measures to help at least lower the risk of incidence and the ability to recover quicker from the fall.

Individuals are at risk not just with age, but also with their health status and type of lifestyle. As we age, balance is not as efficient as it once was, so unstable surfaces and stairs can be problematic. Stepping up and down off sidewalk curbs is troublesome. Vision and hearing loss are also common with aging, so this too can make getting around safely an issue. Cognitive functioning is not as precise as it once was either. Muscles atrophy with age and conditions like osteoporosis and diabetes can impact overall wellbeing. There are medications that can also pose a risk to being more prone to falling because they can affect coordination and balance. These typically are psychotropic drugs, antidepressants, or sedatives. They can cause drowsiness. Other possible medications that can cause risk for fall are cardiovascular related such as beta-blockers or diuretics. This is because they can cause cognitive impairment, dizziness, and lightheadedness. Some people feel this when they go from seated to standing. This can also cause them to feel weak in their first few steps and possibly fall.  

Falling at home is probably the most preventable environment. Making sure the home is not cluttered, placing most used items in areas easy to access, and making sure bathing and bathroom areas are not too low or not requiring a high step in and step out entry/exit, are practical measures to take. Floors should not be slippery, areas should be well lit, and trip hazards shouldn’t be around.

The fear of falling can be limiting for some people who would rather not go anywhere to avoid this happening. Broken wrists, hip fractures, head injuries, and broken ankles are all possible fall related injuries. Up to 95% of hip fractures are from falls. Staying active, making sure you are aware of your surroundings, and using a cane or walker, are preventative measures. Often, we become reactive after falling and then try to improve balance and coordination. These things shouldn’t be put off until we age. Exercise is medicine for all ages, and if you don’t move it, you do lose it. We should be ready for the unknown as much as we can.