As we age, the risk of falling increases due to decreased balance and vision, changes in medication, and physical conditions. Falls can lead to severe injuries such as broken bones, head injuries, and even death. Therefore, it’s essential to prevent falls in the elderly, both in their homes and while they are out and about. In this blog post, we’ll provide tips on how to prevent falls in the elderly and create a safe and secure home environment.

Falls are a global public health concern affecting people of all ages, but especially older adults. Here are some worldwide statistics on falls:

1. Falls are the second leading cause of accidental or unintentional injury deaths worldwide, accounting for 646,000 deaths in 2016.
2. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospital admissions in many countries, including Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
3. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that falls cause 40% of all injury deaths in people over the age of 65.
4. The global burden of falls is projected to increase in the coming years due to the aging of populations in many countries.
5. Falls are a leading cause of disability, affecting millions of people around the world and leading to decreased quality of life and increased healthcare costs.

These statistics highlight the importance of fall prevention, not only in individual countries but also on a global scale. By taking steps to prevent falls and creating safe environments, we can help reduce the risk of falls and improve the health and well-being of people of all ages.

Exercise regularly:

Regular exercise can improve balance, strength, and flexibility, reducing the risk of falling. Encourage your elderly loved one to participate in activities such as walking, water aerobics, or Tai Chi.

Check the home environment:

Look around the home and identify any potential hazards such as loose rugs, electrical cords, or cluttered walkways. Remove these hazards and ensure the home is well-lit, especially in areas where the elderly person walks frequently.

Install safety equipment:

Install grab bars in the bathroom and near the bed to provide support when getting in and out of bed or the bathtub. A raised toilet seat and a handheld showerhead can also make it easier and safer for the elderly person to bathe.

Wear appropriate footwear:

Wearing shoes with a non-slip sole and a low heel can reduce the risk of falling. Encourage your loved one to wear shoes both inside and outside the home.

Review medications with your doctor:

Some medications can cause dizziness or drowsiness, increasing the risk of falling. Talk to the doctor about medications that may increase the fall risk and discuss alternative options if necessary.

Stay active:

Encourage your loved one to stay active and engage in social activities. This can help improve balance and coordination and reduce the risk of falling.

Consider assistive devices:

Cane, and walker, can provide support and stability, reducing the risk of falling. Work with your loved one’s physical therapist to determine which assistive device is best for their needs.

Consult a Physical Therapist for Fall Prevention Screening:

A physical therapist can assess your loved one’s risk of falling and develop a personalized plan to improve their balance and mobility. They can also recommend exercises and assistive devices to help prevent falls. A physical therapist can also provide education on proper body mechanics and fall prevention techniques.

By working with a physical therapist, your loved one can receive a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan to reduce their risk of falling. It’s important to seek professional advice, especially if your loved one has a history of falls or has a condition that affects their balance and mobility.

In summary:

Preventing falls in the elderly is critical to maintaining their health and safety. By following these tips, working with a physical therapist for fall prevention screening, and making simple changes to the home environment, you can help your loved one stay safe, healthy, and independent.

Read more facts about falls on WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION’S WEBSITE

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