Experiencing a fall, or witnessing a loved one fall, can be a frightening experience. It often leads to hospitalizations, broken bones, extended recovery and rehabilitation needs, and sometimes a drastic change in one’s life. Unfortunately, falls are more common than people realize. For those over 65 years old, 25% will experience a fall within a year, and a quarter of these falls result in serious injuries, necessitating extended recovery periods.
To prepare against this, it’s crucial to understand the factors that increase the risk of falls. Thankfully, research has compiled a list to guide us which we will now go through:
1.Having a Previous Fall:
No surprise here; having a previous fall is the top indicator of another fall. If someone has experienced a fall, it’s essential to assess their fall risk. Virtual or in-person assessments, often conducted by Physical Therapists (PTs) specializing in fall prevention, can identify potential issues.
2. Balance Issues:
A balance impairment is the second leading indicator of future falls and can manifest in various ways. It may include slower reaction times, coordination issues in the lower extremities, and limited reactive balance, all of which I extensively cover at this site. Training reactive balance, such as the ability to take a large step to prevent a fall, is a crucial aspect of fall prevention.
3. Decreased Muscle Strength:
Reduced strength, especially in the lower extremities, is another fall risk. Weak quad and gluteal muscles, for example, can result in instability and contribute to falls. Strengthening exercises targeting these muscle groups can significantly reduce the risk of falls.
4. Vision Issues:
Vision impairments come in at number four. Poor vision increases the likelihood of missing tripping hazards. Simple actions like adding motion sensor lights and maintaining unobstructed walkways can mitigate this risk.
5. Medications:
Taking more than four medications or psychoactive medications is the next risk factor. Medications can have unintended side effects, such as dizziness or lethargy, contributing to falls.
6. Gait Impairments:
Gait impairments, such as a shuffling gait or an uncoordinated gait, can lead to falls. Gait training with improved mechanics is instrumental in reducing these impairments and lowering the risk of falls.
While these are the most common risk factors, there can be individual-specific causes of falls. A comprehensive fall risk assessment by a PT ensures a thorough understanding of a person’s risk, allowing for targeted fall reduction strategies.
While no professional can guarantee a fall-free future, there are effective ways to reduce the risk. As a Physical Therapist specializing in fall reduction training, my goal is to help you navigate this journey with confidence.
Stay strong and keep moving!
Works Cited:
Tinetti ME, Kumar C. The patient who falls: “It’s always a trade-off.” JAMA. 2010;303:258–266.
Masud, T., & Morris, R. O. (2001). Epidemiology of falls. Age and ageing, 30(suppl_4), 3-7.
(suppl_4), 3-7.