Millions of 65 and older experience falls yearly, making them a significant public health concern. Over one in four older adults fall annually, yet fewer than half report these incidents to their healthcare providers. Falling even once doubles the risk of falling again.
Why Falls Are a Serious Concern
Falls often lead to severe injuries, including broken bones and head trauma. Key statistics highlight the seriousness of this issue:
One in five falls results in a serious injury, such as a hip fracture or traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Emergency departments treat about 3 million older adults annually for fall-related injuries.
Over 800,000 fall-related hospitalizations occur each year, primarily due to head injuries or hip fractures.
More than 300,000 older adults are hospitalized annually for hip fractures, with 95% caused by sideways falls.
Falls are the leading cause of TBIs.
In 2015, fall-related medical costs exceeded $50 billion, with Medicare and Medicaid covering 75% of these expenses.
What Happens After a Fall?
Not all falls cause injuries, but the impact can be life-changing when they do.
Common injuries include broken bones (wrist, arm, ankle, and hip) and head injuries.
Head injuries can be hazardous for individuals on medications like blood thinners.
Fear of falling again often leads to reduced physical activity, resulting in muscle weakness and an increased risk of future falls.
Factors That Increase Fall Risk
Certain conditions and factors make older adults more susceptible to falls. These risk factors include:
Weakness in the lower body.
Vitamin D deficiency.
Balance or walking difficulties.
Medications, including sedatives, antidepressants, or tranquilizers, which can impair balance.
Vision problems.
Foot pain or poor footwear choices.
Home hazards such as clutter, uneven steps, and throw rugs.
The likelihood of falling increases with the number of risk factors present. However, healthcare providers can work with individuals to mitigate these risks.
Tips to Prevent Falls
Falls are not inevitable and can often be prevented by taking proactive steps:
1. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider
Discuss your risk for falls and ways to reduce it.
Review all medications, including over-the-counter ones, to identify any that may cause dizziness or drowsiness.
Ask about taking vitamin D supplements.
2. Strengthen Your Body
Engage in exercises such as Tai Chi that build strength and improve balance.
3. Get Regular Eye Exams
Have your eyes checked annually, and update your prescription as needed. Consider single-vision glasses for outdoor activities if bifocal or progressive lenses affect depth perception.
4. Make Your Home Safer
Remove tripping hazards like clutter and throw rugs.
Install grab bars in the bathroom and railings on the stairs.
Ensure your home is well-lit with bright bulbs.
Keep frequently used items within easy reach to avoid using step stools.
Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and shower.
A Path to Safety
Falls among older adults are a serious but preventable issue. By addressing risk factors and making simple adjustments to daily routines and living environments, individuals can reduce their risk of falling and maintain their independence and quality of life.
