Understanding Fall Risks: Common Causes and How to Address Them

Falls are a big concern for families of older adults, they often cause serious injuries and a loss of independence for their loved one. Understanding the most common causes of falls and taking measures to prevent falls is extremely important for the well-being of our senior population.

The Impact of Falls on Older Adults

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 14 million (about 1 in 4) seniors report falling each year. Falls are the number one cause of injury-related deaths in adults 65 and older. In one year alone, nearly 39,000 older adults died due to unintentional falls.

Aside from the immediate physical injuries, falls often lead to a fear of falling, which can cause seniors to limit their activities, this then results in reduced mobility and an increase in isolation. This cycle can greatly impact their quality of life and overall health.

Common Causes of Falls

As individuals age, a combination of physical changes and daily challenges increase the risk of falling. Here are a few of the most common reasons seniors experience a fall:

• Weakened Muscles & Balance Issues:  It is common for muscle strength to decrease and balance to feel less steady over the years. This can make daily tasks like stairs, getting in and out of the shower, etc. feel more challenging.
• Side Effects of Medication: Some prescriptions or how medications interact can cause dizziness or drowsiness, and slower reflexes which then increases the risk of a fall, without warning.
• Changes in Vision and Hearing: Trouble seeing clearly and not being able to hear well can affect how seniors are able to move around their home. Without full awareness of their surroundings, it is easier to misstep or lose balance.
• Chronic Health Issues: Chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or Parkinson's can negatively reduce mobility, cause joint stiffness, or decrease coordination, making a fall more likely to occur.
• Home Safety Hazards: Sometimes the home can be a hazard in itself. Clutter in the walkways, dim lighting, a lack of safety features like grab bars for stairs and in the bathroom, can create a risky living environment.
  

Prevention Strategies

In order to prevent falls from happening, there are some living modifications and lifestyle adjustments that need to happen.

• Regular Exercise: Movement is medicine. Light activities like walking, stretching or even tai chi to help build strength, improve balance, and keep reflexes sharp. A little exercise every day can boost stability.
• Review Medications: It's a good idea to go over medications with a doctor or pharmacist on a consistent basis. Some combinations of prescriptions can cause side effects like dizziness or drowsiness, which then can increase fall risk.
• Vision and Hearing Checks: Changes in vision or hearing can happen gradually, making it more difficult for seniors to remain aware of their surroundings. Regular check-ups will keep glasses and hearing aids updated. 
• Make the Home Safer: Sometimes even small updates around the house can prevent big concerns. Things like better lighting, installing grab bars in the bathroom, or eliminating clutter from walkways can greatly reduce the chance of a fall.
• Supportive Equipment: Mobility aids like canes and walkers provide stability and independence. If balance is of concern, be sure to talk to your loved one's physician about what type of support would be best. 

Putting these strategies into action can greatly reduce the risk of falls and promote independence and confidence in aging seniors.

Supporting Seniors in St. Louis Park and the Surrounding Area

In communities throughout Hennepin County, there are a number of resources available to help seniors and their families prevent falls.  Some healthcare providers, community centers, and senior organizations have programs and services focused on education, home safety, and physical activity. These resources can provide support in creating a safe and healthy environment for older adults. Here are a few of the suggestions for the St. Louis Park area:

• MinnesotaHelp.info - Fall Prevention Services: A comprehensive directory listing various fall prevention programs and services available in the Twin Cities area, including those in St. Louis Park
• Senior Asset - A locally owned service offering companionship, respite care, transportation, and technology assistance. They focus on making daily life easier for seniors, including support for those with dementia.
• Hold Tight Handrails - A local company specializing in the installation and supply of grab bars.
• Senior Community Services HOME Program - Fall prevention assistance, mobility support, and home safety assessments. 

Give us a call today with any questions you might have regarding home care services and how we can help your senior loved one stay safe at home. Call us at 952-935-0789 or use our inquiry form to reach out.