Falls in the elderly can limit their independence and affect the quality of life. Being informed about the risk factors for falls is important for the implementation of preventive measures.

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Risk Factors for Fall in the Elderly
Falls in the elderly can limit their independence and affect
the quality of life. Being informed about the risk factors for
falls is important for the implementation of preventive
measures.
Older adults, especially those over 65 years of age are
increasingly at the risk of falling and subsequent injuries.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) global
report on Falls Prevention in Older Age, approximately 2835% of people aged of 65 and over fall each year and this
proportion increases to 32-42% for those over 70 years of
age. Falls in the elderly are a threat to their health and
independence and can significantly limit their mobility.
However, falls can be preventable. Therefore it is crucial to
identify the factors that cause falls and take appropriate
preventive measures to reduce these risks.
Major Factors that Cause Falls in Older Adults
Risk factors causing falls are clinically identified as
intrinsic or extrinsic factors.
Intrinsic Factors
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Intrinsic factors refer to characteristics or conditions of the
individual, such as
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Age and gender
Bone weakening osteoporosis
Arthritis
Musculoskeletal disorders
Poor walking patterns
Impaired mobility and gait
Vision problems
Nutritional deficiencies
Impaired cognition
Extrinsic factors
Extrinsic factors refer to conditions outside the individual,
such as
• Medication effects
• Environmental hazards
Falls in the Elderly – Prevention Measures
Fall prevention in the elderly is crucial as falling can lead
to serious long-term injuries such as hip fractures and
traumatic brain injuries. Enrolling in slip/fall prevention
programs is one of the most feasible options available to
reduce the risk of falling among older adults and help them
stay independent. Professional healthcare centers offer this
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six-week program under the supervision of expert
physicians, physical therapists and pain management
specialists.
A series of tests are first performed to assess the patient’s
risk of falling. Risk fall assessment includes identifying the
physical and environmental factors that can cause falls. The
conditioning part of the program is designed to modify the
identified risk factors. Physical factors such as poor
balance, strength and walking speed are modified through
individual balance training and exercise programs such as
• Biodex Isokinetic Testing and exercise
• Dynamic Balance Testing and Training
• Gait Testing and Training
Home safety tips are provided to minimize environmental
hazards causing falls such as poor lighting, uneven floors,
curled carpet edges, and more.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention older adults can prevent falls by exercising
regularly, getting their medication reviewed for side effects
such as dizziness or drowsiness, having their vision
checked, following a healthy diet, and making their home
safe by minimizing tripping hazards.
Posted by HealthQuest
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