Preventive Measures can be Taken to Reduce Falls

"Falls are a major cause of disability, loss of independence, and even death in the elderly," says Dr. Sharon Ostwald, director of The University of Texas-Houston Center on Aging. "Falls can have unfortunate results beyond the actual physical injury. Older people who have fallen often become afraid they will fall again, and they restrict their activity and mobility."

The statistics of falling are frightening: falls are the second leading cause of injury-related deaths in people aged 65-84, and the leading cause of death for those over 85; falls cause 87 percent of all fractures in the elderly, and they are the leading cause of spinal cord and brain injuries in that same age group. Hip fractures are the most serious injury from falls because they take long to heal.

Dr. Ostwald says prevention starts with physical fitness. "Exercise has been shown to reduce falls, even among frail residents in nursing homes." Physical activity can also reduce the severity of injuries from falls. Elderly relatives should be strongly encouraged to use a cane or walker if they're unsteady.

Around the home, several preventive measures can be taken:

• Use non-slip rugs, floor mats and floor waxes, make sure rug edges are tacked down, and get rid of any throw rugs;
• Put sturdy handrails near the toilet and bathtub, and use a bath chair or non-slip mats in the tub;
• Make sure indoor and outdoor staircases are well-lighted, with banisters on both sides;
• Remove raised thresholds in doorways;
• Don't put objects on hard-to-reach shelves.

- From the November 15, 1998, issue of TMC News

Source: The University of Texas-Houston Health Science Center

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Courtesy of Texas Medical Center News

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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URL: http://www.tmc.edu/health_briefs/07_01_99-falls.html