Happy falls prevention week. Falls prevention week is the first week of fall. It is a week focused on the health crisis of falls in the elderly. This year it started on Sept 23rd to Sept 27th.
So why focus on falls?
Falls in the elderly are a significant health crisis in our country. Falls can lead to some significant Medical problems and serious injuries. Falls can result in fractures and head injuries that can permanently affect the wellbeing and living situation.
Incidence of falls
Some interesting facts about falls are that one in three adults over 65 will have a fall each year. Falls are the leading cause of fractures in adults over 65. There is also a higher prevalence of women falling than men with an average of double the falls.
Why do we fall more as we get older?
There a many factors that create more risk of falls as we age. Some of those factors include increased joint and muscle stiffness, decreased sensitivity of our senses, decreased mobility with increased need for assistive devices, and polypharmacy with side effects.
So what can we do to decrease the chance of falls?
Some preparation and forward thinking can make a huge impact. We can start by looking at our own houses. Where do we see some problems? Is it the trouble spots in the kitchen, the living room, the bedroom, the bathroom?
How about looking outside of our houses. Is there any safety devices for our steps to get inside, like rails or non skid surface? Is there any loose bricks or stones in the walkway? Is there uneven pavement in the driveway?
By being proactive we can decrease some of the risk.
We need to add some safety tools around the house. Some examples are grab bars in the bathroom, clearing the floors of clutter, increase the lighting, or just pulling up throw rugs.
Is there any professional help?
Medicare covers a fall screening at any outpatient Physical therapy office upon enrollment. With the help of a Physical Therapist changes in strength, range of motion, or balance can be addressed early and begin a prevention plan.
Even after that, when there is a change, a visit to a Physical Therapist will continue to address needs as they arrive.
This is also applicable to those that are in an assistive living facility or a skilled nursing facility. Therapy can significantly affect the capabilities of these residents and help to prevent falls through strength training and balance training.
So be proactive not reactive
So be an advocate for yourself or your loved ones and see a therapist. It could very well make a significant impact on your life. Happy falls prevention week.
