Seniors and Falls

March 10, 2011

Millions of people are injured as the result of a fall each year. When an older person falls, their risk for complications increase. Falls are the number one cause of death for seniors. Due to fractures as a result of falls...some seniors never return to their prior level of functioning and remain there until the end of life.

Some falls are preventable....some are not. There are things that you can do to help your loved one:

  • Make homes safer by reducing tripping hazards, adding grab bars and railings where appropriate, and making sure there is an adequate amount of lighting.
  • Exercise or obtain physical therapy services. It's important that the exercises or therapy focus on increasing leg strength and improving balance.
  • Ask their doctor or pharmacist to review their medicines- both prescription and over-the counter - there may be side effects or interactions causing dizziness, which can increase the risk for falls.
  • Make sure they have annual eye exams and have new eyeglass prescriptions filled annually as well, to help maximize their vision.

By working together, taking a bit of time to educate ourselves and our seniors, we CAN reduce the incidence of falls!