Advice on preventing falls in older people

Falls are a common cause of injury for the population as a whole, however the chance of falling increases with age especially for people over the age of 80 years. The majority of falls for older people occur in and around the home.

Falls can be caused by:

• Certain health conditions
• Changes in eyesight or eye disorders
• Problems with balance or walking patterns
• Low levels of physical activity
• Certain medications
• Hazards in the home or community

Falls may be caused by one or more of these things. By looking closely at your health, lifestyle and environment you can prevent further falls and remain active and independent.

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Talk with your GP

• Many health conditions contribute to falls
• Your general practitioner or specialist is the best person to consult regarding your ongoing medical conditions
• You can ask your doctor what can you do to reduce the risk of your condition causing a fall

Check your medications

• Some medications can also make people unsteady on their feet
• Each person responds slightly differently to medications so it is important to understand the effects of certain medications
• Your doctor should regularly review your medications and you should tell your doctor about any symptoms such as dizziness that you experience when taking medications
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Check your vision

• Physical changes take place in the eyes that are more common as we get older
• Many changes are gradual and they may not be noticed, but they all increase the risk of a fall
• To pick up gradual changes, ask your doctor or optometrist to check your eyesight every year
• If you need glasses consult your optometrist as to the type of glasses you should purchase
• Some people are at extra risk when wearing bifocals or trifocals

Be active

• Being physically active improves health and the functioning of all the body’s systems, such as breathing, circulation, digestion, and sleeping
• Physical activity is also one way to reduce the risk of falling. It can:
  • Improve walking patterns and balance
  • Strengthen muscles
  • Increase movement of joints
  • Improve stamina
  • Speed up reaction time

Talk to your general practitioner before commencing exercise. If you have problems walking, standing or balancing you may need to see a physiotherapist who can develop a physical activity program to suit you. There are also a number of community-based exercise programs that can improve your walking, strength and balance. Tai Chi is particularly effective and can be a great way to slowly increase your activity.

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See a podiatrist

• You may also need to see a podiatrist who can prevent and treat foot problems and advise you regarding safe footwear
• A safe shoe, which has a good fit, flat broad heels, good fastening and good grip on the sole, will reduce your risk of falling

Create a safe environment

• Most people fall in or around their home
• However it is not difficult to create a safe home environment
• By ensuring your home is safe you will enhance the likelihood of remaining independent and at home for as long as possible
• Your home can be made safer by:
  • Slip resistant flooring and paving surfaces
  • Extra lighting in and around the house
  • Clear, uncluttered hallways
  • Uncluttered bedrooms without loose rugs
  • Hand rails to assist with balance when using steps, stairs, the shower or toilet
  • You can also reduce your risk of falling by ensuring all power cords are tucked away
  • Automatic sensor night lights and touch lamps next to your bed are also helpful

An occupational therapist can abvise you about changes, aids or equipment which can be provided to make you safer in your home and enhance your lifestyle.