Falls can lead to severe injuries. For the elderly, falling not only causes harm but can also be deadly. So, what are the risks of falls in older adults and how can they be prevented? Read on for more information.

Dangers of Falls in the Elderly

While falls can happen to anyone, they are especially concerning for the elderly due to the serious injuries and even fatalities they may cause.

Here are some of the dangers of falling in older adults:

• Injury: Falls among the elderly can lead to fractures in areas like the wrist, arm, and hip, head injuries, and soft tissue damage. These injuries can severely limit movement or even result in brain hemorrhage.
• Triggers fear: After a fall, many older adults become fearful of falling again. This fear may cause them to avoid physical activities, which can actually weaken muscles, reduce social interactions, and decrease quality of life.
• Increases dependency: A fear of falling can make the elderly feel insecure, leading them to rely on others for assistance more often.
• Increases the risk of health complications: Falls may worsen existing health problems like infections, heart disease, or pneumonia.
• Increases the risk of death: Falls can result in fatal head injuries such as brain hemorrhages, raising the likelihood of death.

Causes of Falls in the Elderly

As people age, certain body functions, such as vision, hearing, and reflexes, become less sharp. These changes weaken the body and make it more difficult to maintain control, raising the risk of falls.

Some common causes of falls in older adults include:

• Health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and thyroid or blood vessel disorders can affect balance and coordination, increasing the chances of a fall.
• Conditions that cause quick movements, such as incontinence, may make elderly individuals rush to the bathroom, heightening the risk of falling.
• Mild cognitive impairment, including dementia, can impair memory and awareness, making elderly people more prone to falls due to a lack of attention to their surroundings.
• Sarcopenia, which refers to muscle loss due to aging, weakens the body, reduces muscle strength, and causes balance problems that increase the risk of falling.
• Foot problems, such as numbness from diabetes or joint issues in the knees and feet, can make walking difficult, raising the likelihood of a fall.

How to Prevent Elderly People from Falling Often

Here are some ways to help prevent falls in elderly:

Maintain an active lifestyle

Older adults should engage in physical activities suitable for their abilities, like regular exercise, strength training, and balance exercises. These activities can help strengthen muscles and reduce the risk of falling. Activities like yoga, tai chi, or pilates are highly recommended.

Regular health check-ups

Routine eye, hearing, and chronic disease check-ups can help manage health risks. With regular assessments, elderly individuals can adjust their eyeglasses or hearing aids to make activities easier and decrease fall risks. 

Wear comfortable footwear

As bone strength and leg muscle mass decline, walking patterns change. Wearing comfortable, supportive shoes is essential to help minimize the risk of falls or sprains.

Ensure a safe home environment

It is vital for elderly individuals to live in a safe home environment that supports mobility and safety, including:

• Clear pathways: Remove objects that block paths or create slippery surfaces to reduce the chance of falls. In the bathroom, place non-slip mats and install handles near toilets and showers for added stability.

• Adequate lighting: Ensure that areas like the bedroom, stairs, kitchen, and bathroom are well-lit. Good lighting helps elderly individuals move around more safely, especially at night.

Falls are a serious concern for older adults. If there are elderly individuals in your home, it is important to consult a doctor about the safest ways to care for them and minimize the risk of falls. Additionally, you can use the consultation feature on the Ai Care app, which is available for download via the App Store and Play Store.

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