Falls are a significant cause for concern for older people.
A fall can result in long term disability, decreased independent function and mobility, and in rare cases, can lead to fatalities.
A fall can also lead to fear of falling which can result in avoidance of usual daily and social activities.
Falls are common in older people for many reasons. Risk factors include; reduced leg strength, reduced sensory awareness, declining mobility, cognitive impairments as well as the hazards of the home environment.
There is, however, compelling evidence that falls can be prevented.
There is high-quality evidence that recommends exercise as an effective preventative
strategy for falls; both in high-risk patients and in the general older adult population.
There is also significant evidence that functional disability and poor mobility can be improved
with well-designed, targeted exercise programs.
These exercise programs should have a focus on lower limb strength, balance and
functional tasks (such as walking, walking up stairs and standing from sitting).
One on one sessions with a physiotherapist, targeted group classes or activities such as tai
chi can all be effective exercise options to reduce the risk of a fall.
If you are unsure where to start, you can book in with a physiotherapist who can recommend
some appropriate exercise options.
It is also important to minimise falls risks in the home environment.
55% of fall-related injuries occur inside the home.
Some simple modifications to the home can decrease this risk:
- Make sure that there is good lighting within the house
- Remove clutter and trip hazards such as cords and ornaments from walkways
- Make sure rugs are secure, are not wrinkled, and the corners and edges are flat
- Install support and grab rails on steps and in the bathroom
- Make sure chairs and furniture are sturdy and safe
- Clean up any spills immediately
- Avoid clothing that is too long, and do not walk in socks or loose slippers.
Occupational therapists can do home visits and make recommendations on how to reduce
the risks in the home.
Certain medications, poor eyesight and medical conditions can also increase your risk of
falls. For this reason, if you are concerned about falling it is important that you talk to your
doctor or optometrist to reduce these factors.
In Canberra, there is a Falls and Falls injury prevention program aimed at older individuals
who fear falling or are at risk of falling.
For more information, the Australian Government has released an information booklet titled
‘Don’t Fall for it – A guide for preventing falls for older people’ linked below
https://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/E23F5F7BF8F07264CA257B
F0002043F5/$File/Don’t%20fall%20for%20it.pdf
