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Falls become a more common occurrence as we age. Studies indicate that falls in the elderly often serious consequences – limited physical activity, premature nursing home placement and premature death. With proper action and attention the likelihood of falls can be reduced or prevented.
A fall may be an early indicator of an undiagnosed health problem. If a relatively healthy elderly person begins to lose balance or fall, a medical appointment should be made immediately. A new health diagnosis, or progression of a previously diagnosed disease like Parkinson's or dementia, may be the cause of the imbalance or falls. Poor vision, depth perception, vertigo or a combination of drugs may also contribute to balance problems. Even something as simple as a urinary tract infection may result in poor balance and a subsequent fall.
The most common cause of falls is leg weakness. Legs become weak because of physical inactivity – older adults sit most of the day and sleep at night. Those who were previously active become inactive. Strength is lost in muscles that are not used. For most of us, exercise is a chore. However, it's one of the best prevention techniques to avoid falls. Contact your doctor to request a physical therapy evaluation. A program can be developed that incorporates exercises for muscle coordination, resistance and balance either at a physical therapy clinic or in your home if you are homebound.
Environmental hazards in the home are also a contributing factor to falls. Seventy five percent of unintentional injuries in the home are the result of a fall. Throw rugs, general clutter, the absence of grab bars in showers and baths, poor lighting and other factors increase the likelihood of falls.
Older adults who have fallen previously are prone to increased falls. In these cases, the thought of falling or fear of falling will result in the person limiting their physical activity because they don't want something to happen. They think, "If I move less, I am less likely to fall". This thinking is a spiral toward increased immobility, physical weakness and the likelihood of more falls. Identifying the risk factors of falling is the first step to developing precautions to developing a plan to reduce the possibility of future falls or accidents in the home.
Copyright 2011 Pamela D. Wilson, All Rights Reserved.
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