Falls can happen anytime and anywhere to people of any age. However, as people get older, the number of falls and the severity of injury resulting from falls increase. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries in people age 65 and older. Common injuries due to falls are head injuries, shoulder and forearm fractures, spine fractures, pelvic fractures, and hip fractures.
About one third of people over the age of 65, and almost half of people over the age of 80, will fall at least once this year.
The incidence and severity of complications related to falling increase steadily after age 60. About one third of individuals over age 65 fall each year and 10% of those sustain serious fractures. Those who sustain a hip fracture are at greatest risk for such complications as: immobility, disability, and death. Out of individuals who fall, 30% to 50% sustain soft tissue injuries (hematomas, sprains, strains, or dislocations).
The more risk factors you have, the greater your risk. There usually are several reasons for a fall:
A history of previous falls
Balance problems
Leg muscle weakness
Lack of sensation
Vision problems
Difficulty with walking
Neurologic conditions, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis
Here are some ways to prevent falls in your home:
• Use nonskid rugs
• Avoid walking on slippery surfaces/tiles i.e wet tiles
• Handrails on the stairs
• Grab bars near toilets, bathtubs/shower stalls
• Proper lighting in-door and out
• Reduce clutter on the floor
• Tuck electrical or phone cords out of the way
• Move commonly used items to lower cabinets or shelves
Physical Therapists teach patients how to prevent a fall and also perform rehabilitation after a fall. A comprehensive physical therapy fall evaluation will be performed and the evaluation results will help your physical therapist design an exercise and training program to improve your balance and strength. A recent study indicated that exercise-based programs in the home or in group settings are effective in preventing falls.
Call Dr. Richardson for more information or to make an appointment for a complete assessment.
Tel #: (264) 772-3546
Via email: GinaRichardsonDPT@gmail.com
