Take Action to Decrease Risk of Falling

By Mendi Hanna, Director of Marketing & Development Bishop Spencer Place

There is a lot to be said for getting older. Wine, antiques and fine cheeses all get better with age. As we get older we gain more wisdom and have valuable life experiences to share with those younger than us. With all of the good things that come with aging, there are also new challenges to be aware of, such as the risk of falling.

"Falls are the most common cause of injuries among seniors and the top reason for a hospital admission for trauma," according to a MedicineNet.com article titled "Falls and Fractures In Seniors." Michael McGee, RN and the Trauma Program Manager at Saint Luke's Hospital says, "As we age the risk for falls increases as does the severity of injury due to falls." McGee continues with some startling statistics: "20%-30% of falls result in moderate to severe injuries and 18,000 older adults died from fall injuries in 2007. Nearly half of all falls occur in or around the home and 1/3 of older adults age 65 years and older have one or more falls each year." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that once a person falls or stumbles he is two to three times more likely to fall within a year.

"The risk factors associated with falls are osteoporosis, vision and medications," explains McGee. According to the Emergency Nurses Association's Stand Strong for Life Program, "Less than 25% of older adults exercise regularly. By the age of 65, a 20% decrease in strength and flexibility usually occurs. After the age of 70, a decrease in strength is even greater. The lack of activity combined with a loss of muscle strength and flexibility increases your risk of falls. It is very important that you see your doctor every year for a full physical exam including vision, medication, and blood pressure checks. Your pharmacist can also conduct the medication review. Remember to include all over-the-counter medications," adds McGee.

The risk of falls may be great as we get older, but with every risk there is prevention. McGee recommends, "Staying active improves muscle strength, flexibility and balance." The American College of Sports Medicine, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Institutes of Health recommend that older adults should do 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week. This activity should incorporate aerobic activity, such as walking, dancing, swimming, resistance training, balance, and flexibility. McGee's best advice to prevent falls is, "Avoid going out during inclement weather conditions unless absolutely necessary. If one needs to do so go with extreme caution."

Please take this information to heart and start incorporating the prevention tips above into your lifestyle, or share them with your older loved ones to help protect them from falling.