Falls amongest the Elderly

Falls are a major cause of disability and the leading cause of mortality due to injury in people Age>75Y.
INCIDENCE: increased with age--- 1:3 adults >65Y
Consequences of falling : 20%
experience a fall with injury requiring acute medical attention , though>1:10 falls lead to fracture( mainly Colles’ and fracture neck of femur).
Even if uninjured , older people might not be able to get up off the floor without help. The result may be a prolonged period of lying on the floor until help arrives.Apart from indignity and helplessness this generates secondary problems (eg pneumonia,pressure sores , hypothermia and dehydration) may follow.
Any fall may seriously undermine an elderly person’s confidence and make him(and his relatives/carers) worry about the possibility of recurrence. As a result he may restrict activities, becoming less fit and more dependent on others.
RISK FACTORS FOR FALLS:
The female to male ratio is 2:1 in the over 75s.*
Multiple previous falls. *
Increasing Age*
Disorders of gate or balance*
Visual impairment*
Cognitive impairment*
High level of dependence*
Decreased mobility*
Lower limb weakness or arthritis*
Foot problems*
History of stroke or PD*
Use of psychotropic drugs , sedatives , diuretics or B-blockers*
Alcohol*
Environmental factor :(slippery floor or bath, chair or bed too low*

بارك الله بكي

دمتي متالقة

Thank you for this valuable information
I would like to add one important risk factor which is taking many types of medications.