More than one-third of
U.S. adults 65 years and older fall each year (Hornbrook 1994; Hausdorff
2001).
Among older adults, falls are
the leading cause of injury deaths (Murphy 2000).
Of those who fall, 20% to 30% suffer
moderate to severe injuries such as hip fractures or head traumas that reduce
mobility and independence, and increase the risk of premature death (Sterling
2001).
Among people ages 75 years and
older, those who fall are four to five times more likely to be admitted to a
long-term care facility for a year or longer (Donald 1999).
Falls are a leading cause of
traumatic brain injuries (Jager 2000).
From 1989-1998, Guilford County was
in the 90th percentile in the US for fall-related deaths (CDC).
In 2003, 56 people in Guilford
County died as a result of a fall--49 were ages 65 and older (NC State Center
for Health Statistics, Detailed Mortality Statistics Reports).
To prevent
falls, seniors should:
1. Increase lower body
strength, improve balance and improve range of motion Physical
activity can help seniors improve their physical abilities. Tai chi has proven
to be especially helpful. Seniors may wish to work with a physical therapist to
create a physical activity program tailored to prevent falls.
For
physical activity opportunities in Guilford County designed for seniors, visit
Greensboro Parks &
Recreation and High Point Parks & Recreation . Channel 13 shows the Add Health to Our Years (AHOY) exercise
program designed for seniors aged 55 or better Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
at 8am and 1pm.
2. Review medications with their doctor or pharmacist at least
annually Certain medications, both
prescription and over-the-counter, can have side effects that increase a
person's risk of falling. The risk of falling increases with each prescription
and over-the-counter medication taken. Seniors should speak with
their physician or pharmacist about the risk of falling any time a new
medication is prescribed and let their physician or pharmacist know
about any side effects they experience with a medication. Seniors should also
carry a list of all the prescribed and
over-the-counter medications they are taking along with the
dosages.
3. Eliminate environmental hazards in
the home Most falls occur in the home usually by tripping or slipping.
Following are tips to improve your home environment and reduce your
risk of falling:
ensure you have
adequate lighting throughout your home; use nightlights in your bedroom and
bathroom
wear sturdy,
well-fitted, low-heeled shoes with non-slip soles in the house;
never walk in stockings or socks alone
wipe up spills
immediately
use a rubber mat in
the bath or shower; use a rug with rubber backing outside the tub
install at least 2
grab bars in the tub area
install handrails on both sides of stairs
eliminate throw
rugs; if you must use throw rugs, make sure they have rubber backing and do
not curl up at the corners
use step stools or
reachers to reach items above your head
eliminate clutter--keep stairs and walking areas
free of electrical cords, shoes, clothing, books, magazines and pet
toys
Collaborating to prevent injuries and deaths through the
identification, education and promotion of safety issues.
