According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are a serious health concern for older adults. An ordinary fall can cause serious injuries, complications or worst, they can limit the ability to lead an active and independent life. Unfortunately falls are becoming more common in our community. The following are important facts about fall victims:
- More than a third of adults 65 and older fall each year in the United States.
- Older adults are hospitalized for fall related injuries five times more than they are for injuries from other causes.
- Of those who fall, 20% to 30% suffer moderate to severe injuries that reduce mobility and independence, and increase the risk of premature death.
- Falls account for 87% of all fractures for people age 65 or older. Falls are also the second leading cause of spinal cord and brain injury among older adults.
Source: Center for Disease Control and Prevention
Preventing a Fall
Falls seldom just happened; the fact is that many falls can be prevented. Those at risk can take steps to make their home safe and decrease their chance of a costly fall. The following are recommendations from the National Institute on Aging:
- Have your vision and hearing tested often. Wear a properly fitted hearing aid and eyeglasses if recommended by your doctor.
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of the drugs you are taking. Could they affect your coordination or balance? Ask the doctor to suggest ways to reduce your chance of falling.
- Don’t get up too quickly after eating, lying down or resting. Low blood pressure may cause dizziness at these times.
- Be careful about temperature. Being too cold or too hot can make you dizzy. Keep the nighttime temperature in your home at 65 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
- Wear rubber-soled and low heeled shoes that fully support your feet. Don’t wear smooth-soled slippers or just socks on stairs or waxed floors where you can easily slip.
- If you must carry something when going up or down a stairway, keep one hand on a handrail.
Source: NFPA
