Falls in older people

Why do falls matter in older people?

Australian’s are living longer and healthier lives. However as we age, certain problems, like falls become a major cause of death and disability. In Australia, 30-40% of people over the age of 65 fall each year. The older we get the more frequent the falls and the more seriousness the consequences. Up to 15% of falls have a serious injury, approximately 5% fracture a bone and 1% a hip fracture. Unfortunately, hip fractures are common and deadly; 25% die within a year and more than 50% don’t return to the same level of ability.

Why do older people fall?

Most people describe falls as “trips”, “stumbles” or “loss of balance”.  But there is never just one-reason why an old person falls.

Below is the reasons why people may fall

• Chronic illness(s)

• Loss of physical condition

• Poor eye-sight or hearing

• A home that is cluttered and has trip hazards

• Memory problems

• Pain problems – like arthritis

• Certain types of medication(s)

• Loss of confidence

How are falls prevented?

Falls are the result of multiple factors. Identifying all the factors can be tricky. However, once identified most factors can be managed quite practical ways. 

Here are some simple tips for home

• Wearing appropriate foot wear (e.g. socks and house slippers increase falls risk)

• Ensure flooring is suitable (e.g. waxing floors are slippery, some rugs are trip hazards) and that walkways are even and in good order

• Ensure your home is well lit and that sensor night light are installed in the bedroom, bathroom and hallway.

• Remove trip hazards in the house such as throw rugs, power cords and unnecessary clutter

• Install grab rails in the bathroom and toilet and stairways

Ensure you look after yourself and keep good health

• Have eye checks regularly

• Avoid multifocal glasses if possible

• Manage foot pain and other foot issues

• See our doctor if you feel unsteady, dizzy or weak

• Get your medications reviewed regularly

• If you are feeling unwell take added precautions when standing up or walking.

• Minimise your alcohol intake

• Get regular exercise

• See physiotherapist to help with a home balance and strength programme

• Applying for a medic alert alarm in case of a fall

What can health professionals do?

A great place to start is your GP.  Usually your GP will do an initial assessment and take the initiative to refer to one or more different health professionals who can assist.

These include

• Geriatricians

• Physiotherapy

• Occupational therapy

• Home Care Providers

• ACAT (Age Care Assessment Team)

Geriatricians specialise in the medical management of falls. Often falls are due to medical problems, some unrecognised, other needing medical optimisation. Geriatricians also optimise medications and help with future planning and decision making. Geriatricians are work closely with other professionals such as physiotherapists and ACAT, thus helping with care coordination.

Working together, multiple interventions do make a difference to decreasing falls, decreasing fall related injuries and improving quality of life.