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Why is fall prevention relevant to know for those who are aging?

The 3 factors that contribute to the frequency of falls are 1. Aging and frailty, 2. Behavioural risk factors such as the intake of various medications or excess alcohol use and, 3. Environmental risk factors such as narrow steps, slippery surfaces, insufficient lighting, uneven sidewalks these combined with the persons physical conditions can lead to them falling.

 

How vulnerable are you to falls?

Roughly 28-35% of people who are 65 and over fall each yeah with those over 70 increasing to 32-42% and for those living in long-term care 30-50% experience a fall and 40% of those will experience recurrent falls.

 

Why is fall prevention so important?

In the last 3 decades there has been a 131% increase in fall related injuries particularly fractures and spinal cord injuries and is only set to increase.

 

Can falls result in death?

Yes, falls account for 40% of all injury deaths.

 

What are some tips to prevent falls?

 

• Go for a walk, do some gardening, go for a swim do any fun activities and make it a part of your daily routine. Regular activity improves muscles and makes you stronger. It also helps keep your joints, tendons, and ligaments flexible.

 

• Have your eyes and hearing tested. Even small changes in sight and hearing may cause you to fall. Always wear your glasses when you need them and if you have a hearing aid wear it.

 

• Find out about the side effects of any medicine you take. If a drug makes you sleepy or dizzy, tell your local doctor or pharmacist.

 

• Get enough sleep.

 

• Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Even a small amount of alcohol can affect your balance and reflexes.

 

• Stand up slowly. Getting up too quickly can cause your blood pressure to drop. That can make you feel wobbly.

 

• Use a walking stick if you need help feeling steady when you walk. If your doctor tells you to use a cane or walker, make sure it is the right size for you and the wheels roll smoothly. This is very important when you're walking in areas you don't know well or in places where the walkways are uneven.

 

• Be very careful when walking on wet surfaces.

 

• Wear non-skid, rubber-soled, low-heeled shoes, or lace-up shoes with non-skid soles that fully support your feet. It is important that the soles are not too thin or too thick. Don't walk around on stairs or floors in socks or in shoes and slippers with smooth soles.