How do I know if my loved one or I am at an increased risk for falls?
Some of the most common factors that may put you or your loved one at an increased risk for falls include:
- a history of falls
- advanced age
- heart conditions such as an arrhythmia like atrial fibrillation, bradycardia or tachycardia
- a gait impairment, or been diagnosed with a condition that impairs gait or balance such as Parkinson's disease, peripheral neuropathy, stroke, muscle weakness or osteoarthritis
- dementia or memory loss
- bowel or bladder problems; incontinence
- currently taking medications to lower blood pressure
- currently taking pain, psychoactive, or sleep aid medications
- cluttered home environment with inadequate space and/or lighting for safe ambulation
Note: The more risk factors you have the greater your fall risk becomes.
Why is it important for myself or my loved one to reduce the risk for falls?
Primary prevention is key in decreasing fall risks in older adults and maintaining a higher quality of life.
Falls…
- predispose older adults to necessitate higher levels of care including: hospitalizations, surgical procedures and/or rehabilitation.
- increase the risk of mortality, especially when hip fracture occurs.
- may result in decreased life satisfaction and a disruption of daily life activities.
What can I or my loved one do to decrease the risk for falls?
Below are some Be Well MD recommendations for you and your loved one to reduce the risk for falls by modifying the home environment.
- utilizing assistive devices as needed (cane, walker, wheelchair)
- installing accessible grabs bars in bathrooms
- removing rugs or clutter from pathways
- ensuring the living space has adequate lighting
- having a lifeline device in home and with patient
Other methods for reducing fall risk and improving balance include:
- participation in Tai Chi exercises
- participating in physical therapy and balance exercises
- understanding and remembering safety precautions with medications. If you or your loved one takes a medication which can cause lightheadedness or dizziness, it is important to change positions slowly to prevent imbalance.
- Always discuss any new symptoms of dizziness, unsteadiness, changes in balance, or recent falls with your primary care provider in order to rule out any new or worsening conditions, and aid you or your loved one in reducing the risk for falls.
About the Expert
Be Well MD is an outpatient medical practice providing personalized healthcare to aging adults. Their clinicians provide services in Austin and Eastern Nebraska and are specifically trained to care for the needs and conditions of aging adults.
For more information about Be Well MD, please visit stayhealthystayhome.com.
Have questions for the experts at Be Well MD?
Send them to us at expert@srgserv.com.