Falls can cause serious health problems, especially for elderly people. As we age our bones and muscles become weaker. Broken bones, such as hip fractures and trauma can cause serious health problems. A fall such as this could also lead to reduced independence and longer recovery times.
Simple changes in your daily life and home can reduce the risk of falls and make your later years safer and more enjoyable.
The National Health Service, (NHS) estimates that about one-third of adults older than 65 have at least one fall each year. Half of those who have more falls experience more frequent falls.
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths in the UK for people over 75 years old. Therefore, it is important to take steps to reduce hazards and risks in your home.
This page will provide information about what can cause falls. Plus, a list of tips to reduce the risk of falling at home by making changes in your daily routine.
Falling can occur for many reasons, and any one of any age can experience it. However, the risk of falling increases with age and so does fall-related injuries.
Scientists have linked several personal risk factors to falling. Including muscle weakness, problems with balance and blood pressure. Which drops too much when you get up from lying down or sitting (called postural hypotension). Foot problems that cause pain and unsafe footwear, like backless shoes or high heels, can also increase your risk.
There have also been situations where people fall at home by moving too quickly from a sitting to a standing position and vice versa. Preventing falls can be as easy as simply taking your time and not rushing.
The following are causes of falls:
Falls can have a variety of consequences for your health, including severe injury, diminished independence, and multiple falls. Family members and friends can feel the effects of falls, including reduced independence, multiple falls, and anxiety. Which can make it difficult for them to deal with their worries.
A fall can cause serious injury and increase fear. This fear can result in a person losing confidence in themselves. It is dangerous to sit still for too long. Muscles can become weaker if they aren’t in use.
If you’re not walking around or have an exercise routine, your muscles will weaken. You will have a harder time maintaining your balance and mobility. Which can have a knock-on effect and lead to more falls, injury, and decreased independence. It can also cause constant worry for loved ones.
People with osteoporosis are more at risk of falling because their bones are weaker and more susceptible to breaking. A fall can cause fractures, such as a fractured wrist or hip.
When older people experience a fall, it may lead them to avoid activities such as walking, shopping, or taking part in social activities. But don’t let a fear of falling keep you from being active. Overcoming this fear can help you stay active, maintain your physical health, and prevent future falls. Doing things like getting together with friends, gardening, walking, or going to the local senior centre helps you stay healthy.
You can take several steps to prevent falling.
Talking to your GP about preventing falls or how to prevent further falls is a good place to start. Your GP can help you to review your medication and conduct checks to assess your balance and strength.
Your GP can provide valuable information about your health condition. If necessary, your GP may refer you to other health professionals.
Such as an occupational therapist. An occupational therapist can help you brainstorm other fall prevention strategies.
Regular movement and exercise will increase your strength and balance and reduce the chance of falling. You can do this by walking or through training programs.
Exercise can also improve blood flow, which in turn will have a positive effect on your mental well-being.
The good news is, there are simple ways to prevent most falls! To prevent falls, it is important to remove potential trip hazards from your home.
Accepting that you cannot do it all on your own can be hard. It is best to ask for help if you are unable to complete a task safely.
You may be eligible for assistance through your local authority if you are unable or unable to perform certain tasks safely. A Needs Assessment is free. Your local authority might arrange support to assist you in your everyday life.
Always wear shoes or slippers with a grip bottom, and never walk indoors in bare feet, socks or tights. You may need to consider changing your footwear as part of your fall prevention plan. High heels, floppy slippers and shoes can make you slip, stumble and fall. Keep your balance by wearing shoes that are comfortable and fit well.
Although it may seem insignificant, not wearing loose-fitting or trailing clothes that could cause you to trip is a great way to avoid falls.
You can make your home environment safer and more comfortable. A safer home will help you to live a better life. Home adaptations can make your life easier and more independent.
Home adaptations may include grabrails, a staircase lift, and lowering of kitchen counters depending on your needs.
Install grab bars by toilets and bathtubs and handrails in stairways and hallways. Have a handyman or family member help with this if necessary.
Your local council might be able to cover minor adaptations to your home up to £1,000. Grants are available for larger adaptations.
A physical therapist can also recommend exercise programs and assistive devices, if necessary, to keep you safe.
Doing regular strength exercises and balance exercises can improve your strength and balance, and reduce your risk of having a fall. These exercises can take the form of simple activities such as walking and dancing, or specialist training programmes.
Many community centres, gyms, and health systems offer exercise programs for older adults aimed at preventing falls. These exercise regimens focus on improving balance and strengthening muscles.
There’s also evidence that taking part in regular tai chi sessions can reduce the risk of falls. Tai chi is a Chinese martial art that places particular emphasis on movement, balance and coordination. Unlike other martial arts, tai chi does not involve physical contact or rapid physical movements, making it an ideal activity for older people
Falls are the No. 1 cause of injuries in older adults over 65, resulting in hip fractures, cuts, and even serious head and brain injuries that can be fatal.
The risk of falling increases with age. Weakness in muscles, balance problems, poor vision, wet flooring, side effects of medication, and many other factors can cause falls.
Falls can result in serious injuries such as broken bones, trauma, diminished independence, and multiple falls. An increase in fear of falling can lead to a loss of confidence.
Simple changes in your home and routine can reduce the risk of a fall. Later life will be safer and more enjoyable if you remove hazards like loose flooring, poorly lit rooms and flooring.
Talking to your GP is a great idea if you’re concerned about falling in the future. They can advise you on how to prevent or reduce falls. Your GP can give valuable information about your condition and refer you to the appropriate health professionals.
You can make home adaptations to prevent falls and keep you independent longer. You can make your home safer by installing grab rails in the bathroom or a stairlift.
