It’s Falls Prevention Awareness Week. With Fall officially starting this Wednesday, it’s a great reminder to review the common causes of falls as well as what we can do to lower our risk, prevent injury, and stay out of the emergency department.
A recent national poll on healthy aging conducted by the University of Michigan suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to a decline in physical activity and functioning among older adults. Declines in physical condition and mobility can increase the risk for falls.
There is good reason to be concerned about falls and learn what you can to prevent them. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- Every 11 seconds, an older adult visits an emergency room for a fall related injury.
- More than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling, usually by falling sideways.
- Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and the leading cause of injury-related deaths among persons aged 65 years and older.
- 60% of these falls occur within the home.
Most falls are preventable.
<Falling is NOT a normal part of aging; it can be prevented.>
What are the common causes of falls? Most falls are caused by a combination of these risk factors:
- Leg muscle and lower body weakness
- Medications
- Tripping hazards
- Vision problems
- Bad lighting
- Foot pain or ill-fitting shoes
- Problems with walking and balance
What can you do to help lower your risk of falling and injury? Take these Six Easy Steps (Source: National Council on Aging):
- Find a balance or exercise program to help you build stability, strength, and flexibility. Many senior and community centers offer classes. Silver Sneakers is a great program.
- Talk to your doctor. Don’t be afraid to tell your doctor if you’ve had a fall or are afraid of falling. Ask her to assess your risk of falling.
- Review your medications. Discuss medications with your pharmacist or doctor. They’ll know which prescriptions and over the counter medications can increase your risk of falling.
- Get your vision and hearing checked annually. Your eyes and ears are key to keeping you on your feet.
- Keep your home safe. For example, remove any items you may trip over. Keep floors free of trip hazards. Make sure your home is well-lit. Use bathmats in your shower. And install grab bars in your bathroom.
- Talk with your family and friends. Enlist their support.
<NCOA Falls Free CheckUp to get your falls risk score and steps to reduce your risk>
Concerned about falls risks? We can help. Call us today at 206.456.5155 and schedule a consultation or click here to schedule an appointment online.
Nicole Amico Kane, MSW, LICSW, CMC, is the Director of Care Management at Aging Wisdom.
