Common Causes of Falls in the Elderly By Serge Jean, RN,BSN, APRN©

I’m falling and I can’t get up Each year, millions of older people, those 65 and older, fall. In fact, one out of three older people falls each year, but less than half tell their doctor. Falling once doubles your chances of falling again (CDC).

Falls are serious and costly One out of five falls causes a serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury. Each year, 2.5 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries Each year at least 250,000 older people are hospitalized for hip fractures. More than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling, usually by falling sideways. Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Adjusted for inflation, the direct medical costs for fall injuries are $34 billion annually. Hospital costs account for two-thirds of the total.

Fall Risk Factors Prior Falls Lower body weakness Vitamin D deficiency Difficulties with walking and balance Use of medicines, such as tranquilizers, sedatives, or antidepressants. Vision problems Foot pain or poor footwear Home hazards or dangers such as broken or uneven stairs, throw rugs or clutter that can be tripped over, and no handrails along stairs or in the bathroom.

Falls can be prevented Evaluate patient risks for falling Review patient medications to see if any might cause dizziness and sleepiness Evaluate patient for Vitamin D supplements with calcium Encourage patient to do exercises that make their legs longer, stronger and improve their balance (Tai Chi is a good example). Evaluate patient vision once a year and update glasses as needed Evaluate patient’s home: Get rid of clutter- Ensure that the home has enough light Place grab bars inside and outside tubs or showers next to the toilet Put railing bars in both sides of stairs

References Important Facts about Falls. Retrieved on 6/29/2015 from:http://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/falls/adultfalls.htm l