Falls can be a scary and overwhelming experience, especially for the elderly population. They can lead to serious injuries, a decrease in mobility, and even death in severe cases. Falls are a leading cause of injury in the senior population, with one in every three community-dwelling elderly aged 65 and up, and one in every two aged 80 and over, falling at least once a year.
40% of all injury-related fatalities in Singapore are caused by falls, but what if we can prevent falls from happening in the first place? We at RehabWorks believe that falls should not be considered ‘normal’ as we age and can be prevented with the right interventions.
What are Falls? An Overview
Definition
A fall is defined as an unintended descent to the ground or a lower level. This can be a result of tripping, slipping, or losing balance. Falls can happen anywhere at any time but most commonly happen in their very own home.
Incidences
Falls are common in the elderly population, with about 30% of those aged 65 and above experiencing at least one fall each year. The risk of falls increases with age, with those aged 80 and above at the highest risk. Falls can also be more frequent in those with certain medical conditions, such as Parkinson's disease or stroke, or those taking multiple medications.
Causes
Several factors can increase the risk of falls in the elderly population. These include:
· Physical impairments: Decreased muscular strength and muscular endurance, sensory impairments, and decreased balance and coordination can affect functional mobility which can contribute to falls.
· Environmental factors: Home clutter, slippery or wet surfaces, uneven floors, and poor lighting are some factors that can increase the risk of falls. Poor shoe wear can result in tripping both at home and in the community, especially on uneven ground.
· Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as Parkinson's disease, stroke, and vision impairments, can increase the risk of falls. Postural hypotension can cause sudden dizziness in changes of position that can result in a fall.
· Medications: Some medications, such as sedatives and blood pressure medications, can have secondary effects such as drowsiness or dizziness that increase the risk of falls.
Consequences
Falls can lead to severe consequences, including:
· Injuries: Falls can result in fractures, head injuries, and cuts. These injuries can be severe and may require hospitalization.
· Decreased mobility: Falls can lead to reduced mobility, further increasing the risk of future falls.
· Fear of falling: Falls can lead to a fear of falling, leading to decreased physical activity and social isolation.
· Post-fall anxiety syndrome: Falls can also lead to post-fall anxiety syndrome, a condition characterized by anxiety and fear of falling again.
Impacts on Quality of Life
Falls can significantly impact the quality of life of the elderly population. They can lead to decreased mobility, a fear of falling, and social isolation. These impacts can be detrimental to the overall well-being of the elderly population and can lead to a decline in physical and mental health.
Preventative Measures
Falls are preventable, and several measures can be taken to reduce the risk of falls in the elderly population. These include:
Exercise: Regular exercise, such as strength training and balance exercises, can help improve strength, balance, and mobility. Recommendations for fall prevention programs suggest exercising at least twice a week for more than 25 weeks, with each session lasting for 60 minutes.
Home modifications: Making simple changes to the home, such as removing clutter and installing handrails, can help reduce the risk of falls.
Footwear: Wearing appropriate footwear can help improve balance and stability.
Education: Educating the elderly on fall prevention can help them understand the preventable risks and how to take steps to prevent falls.
The Role of Medical Management in Fall Prevention
Preventing falls in the elderly population isn't just about physiotherapy. Medical management can also be crucial in reducing fall risk. This can include medications to address any underlying medical conditions or medications that may increase the risk of falls.
For example, if an individual has low blood pressure, their physician may prescribe medications to regulate their blood pressure and reduce the risk of dizziness and falls. Similarly, if an individual is taking multiple medications that may cause dizziness, their physician may review and adjust their medication regimen to reduce the risk of falls.
Sometimes a fall can be a sign of an underlying medical condition or medication issue. If you or a loved one has experienced a fall, it's essential to seek medical attention and address the medical issue and follow up with a physiotherapist for fall prevention strategies. Addressing any underlying medical issues and taking preventative measures can reduce the risk of falls and maintain a high quality of life.
Conclusion
Falls are a major concern for the elderly population, with severe consequences and a significant impact on quality of life. However, falls are preventable with the right interventions. At RehabWorks we believe that home-based therapy can play a crucial role in preventing and treating falls in the elderly population in the hope of aging gracefully. Contact us today for more information.
Commentaires