Elderly Fall Prevention

As individuals continue to grow older, one of the most pressing concerns that plagues many elderly adults is falling. Falls have become so entrenched in the minds of elderly individuals and all the potential complications, injuries, and burdens that come along with it. Studies have shown that elderly individuals can develop a strong aversion to the possibility of falls that limits their activities, social interactions and exercise. The anxiety associated with falling can in fact increase the risk of falling itself.

Falls are the leading cause of injury among adults 65 years and older. Falls are more likely due to a combination of factors. A few examples include frailty, poor environment lighting and clutter. Those are just a few of the common risk factors. The more risk factors a person has, the greater the chances are of falling. One out of five falls are serious injuries. Falls can lead to arm fractures, leg fractures, pelvic fractures, hip fractures, worse case scenario, head and brain injuries, which can be traumatic or even potentially fatal. However, many falls can be prevented with elderly fall prevention Tulsa education and awareness of potential hazards.

 

Most Common Causes of Falls

  • Age
  • Weakness of lower extremities
  • Sedentary lifestyles
  • Use or Misuse of medication
  • Poor lighting
  • Vision problems
  • Poor household fixtures
  • Unclear Pathways
  • Pets

 

Falls Due to Age and Weakness of Lower Extremities Prevention

As an individual grows older, if they do not stay physically active, the lower extremities can grow weaker and may struggle to support an individual, potentially leading to falls. Likewise, age can also play a factor in this. The best way to prevent falls due to these risk factors is to stay physically active. There are elderly fall prevention Tulsa exercises aimed at elderly individuals with the focus on improving the strength of the lower extremities. These exercises can also help reduce the anxiety and fear associated with falling. 

 

Falls Due to a Sedentary Life

A sedentary lifestyle is a lifestyle that involves a lot of sitting and lying down with little to no exercise. Sedentary behavior is common but is more prominent among elderly individuals. Sedentary behavior is described as people who spend six or more hours a day lying or sitting down, not getting enough physical activity. Sedentary behavior has been linked to both increasing the number of falls due to bodies growing weaker from a lack of physical activity which affects skeletal muscle strength, balance, and walking. Sedentary behavior has also been linked to increase the fear of falling as well.

The only solution to falls due to a sedentary lifestyle is to try and incorporate more physical activity into an individual’s daily routine.

 

Falls Due to Poor Household Environments

Household environments can heavily influence an elderly individual’s likelihood of falling. Improper lighting, throw rugs that can cause tripping or slipping, obstructing obstacles such as loose cords. Many of these problems can be addressed to promote an individual’s safety. 

Cords should be kept out of pathways and neatly placed. The rooms should be well illuminated, and potentially have nightlights installed, or lights that can be activated through other means such as voice, motion, or remotely through a mobile device so that an individual doesn’t have to wander through a low light or completely dark environment. Throw rugs should be removed as they present a tripping hazard. Stairs should have handrails for both sides.

 

Remove Clutter and Reorganize

Pathways should always be clear of any obstacles and objects. Even minor things such as clothes or shoes can potentially cause a fall, so be sure to keep pathways free of clutter as a senior may not always be able to notice potential fall hazards along a path. Furniture should be spaced so that a senior has ample space to maneuver around. 

Keep any items that need to be frequently used in easy to reach places. Consider obtaining a tool to help grab items in hard-to-reach places such as high cabinets rather than using step stools.  

 

Falls Due to Use or Misuse of Medications

Medications are a common cause of falls, especially in older adults. Some medication can increase the risk of losing balance, causing dizziness or confusion. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how medication may affect the risk of falling. They can review the dosage, alert an individual of potential interactions with other medications, and provide council on potential side effects.

 

Bathrooms

According to the national institute of aging, over 80% of senior falls occur in the bathroom due to slippery floors and surfaces. Mount grab bars near toilets on both sides and outside your tub and shower. Place nonskid strips and mats or carpet on all surfaces that may get wet. If possible, a shower seat can significantly reduce the potential of falls in the shower, both from the elderly individual not having to stand on a potentially slippery floor, and it helps to prevent fatigue from standing. 

 

Clothing and Apparel

Loose fitting clothes can be a source of potential falls. As the fabrics get caught on door handles, furniture or other objects, this can in turn cause a senior to fall. Check pants for appropriate sizes and length, as baggy clothing can serve as a tripping hazard. Make sure to wear properly fitted clothing to prevent such incidents. Unsafe footwear such as backless shoes or high heels can increase the risk of falls. 

 

If a Fall Occurs

Even through best elderly fall prevention Tulsa practices, falls can still happen, it is appropriate to know what steps to take if a fall happens.

  • For the senior, take deep breaths. It is crucial not to move too fast to prevent potential further injuries. 
  • Take a moment to feel if there are any injuries. If it hurts to adjust or move, it is best to remain on the ground and call for help. Trying to get up while injured may make the injury worse. 
  • If it doesn’t hurt to adjust or move, roll onto the side and take a moment to breathe and adjust. Carefully get up on your hands and knees and crawl towards a steady and sturdy piece of furniture, like a chair, table or couch.
  • Put your hands on the furniture and slide one foot in front of yourself flat on the ground. 
  • With your other knee still on the ground, carefully rise from this kneeling position. If the furniture is sturdy and stable like a chair or couch, it is best to sit in it.

If the senior cannot get up, it is best to call for assistance from another individual or call 911.  After any fall, make sure to inform a doctor no matter how minor it may seem. A doctor may be able to catch any underlying issues or complications as a result of the fall. Be sure to observe for any new issues like soreness or pain for 24 hours. If any issues appear, it is best to have the senior examined by a doctor.