Orthopedic and Sports Therapy of Metairie on preventing falls in the elderly population – LIVING WELL Magazine

Preventing Falls in the Elderly Population

By David Ware, Orthopedic and Sports Therapy of Metairie, New Orleans LIVING WELL Magazine

Anyone can fall but 30% of falls occur in the over-65 population and falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries. Falls can affect seniors in many ways. If a senior falls and is injured, their ability to live independently significantly decreases with a significant higher incidence of nursing home placement. Risk factors for falls include muscle weakness, arthritis, depression, age older than 80 years, and impairments in gait, balance, vision, and activities of daily living. Lower extremity muscle weakness is a significant risk factor for falls and has been strongly associated with an increased risk of falls.

One of the best ways to prevent falls in the elderly is exercise. A program that includes strengthening exercises for the lower extremities as well as a balance program can significantly decrease the risk of falls. An exercise program can provide the basis for fall prevention in healthy elderly persons living at home. Physical therapy can help the elderly strengthen their muscles and improve balance with everyday activities.  Ask your doctor if you are a candidate for physical therapy treatment.

Sixty percent of elderly falls occur in the home. Safe proofing your home can help decrease this number. Some helpful tips to decrease the incidence of falls in the home include cleaning up spills in the kitchen as they occur, do not store objects above hands reach, and use a step stool with rails when needed. Pick up any throw rugs around the house, make ample space to walk between furniture, and find a way to arrange furniture so that the extension cords are out of the way. Installing handicap railing in the bathtub or shower and placing non-skid mats in the bathtub and shower will help avoid falls. When using stairs, make sure the stairway is clear of clutter and have handrails installed on both sides of the steps. Wear sensible shoes. High heels, flip-flops and shoes with slick soles can make you slip, stumble and fall. Wear properly fitted shoes with non-skid soles.

Attention to these items will help prevent falls and keep your elderly loved one safe.

David Ware, PT is with Orthopedic and Sports Therapy of Metairie and may be reached at 504-831-3227.