The importance of preventing falls

By Claire McEntegart

Falls are one of the leading causes of hospitalisation in the elderly in New Zealand. It is estimated that one in three adults over the age of 65 falls each year, and this increases proportionately up to the age of 80 years. 

For those over 65, falls are the leading causes of injury related deaths, and main cause of moderate to severe injuries including fractures, lacerations and head injuries. These injuries can lead to ongoing issues with pain, reduced mobility and increase dependence on others.

ACC figures released in 2011 stated that falls had cost them $272 million dollars in one year. This accounted for both minor and major injuries sustained in falls and time spent off work.

As you can imagine a lot of falls go unreported so the actual incidence of falls is most likely higher than the reported 30%.

Most people who fall, even if not seriously injured, will develop a fear of falling which results in them limiting their activities leading to reduced mobility and loss of physical fitness, which in turn increases their actual risk of falling.

As we age we lose muscle bulk and strength, our balance is reduced and our reaction times are slower – all which impact on our ability to right ourselves when off balance, and reduce our ability to save ourselves when we do lose balance.

There are a number of ways to prevent falls which are easy and simple to do: 

Regular exercise: exercises which focus on balance, lower leg strength and reaction times are important to maintain the ability to correct yourself if of balance, and save yourself if you do trip or lose your balance. A simple exercise like standing on one leg without holding on, done every day will help you to maintain the balance centers in your brain and maintain a fast reaction time in your legs. Tai chi is great form of exercise as it challenges your balance and strengthens your legs and is a very gentle and safe form of exercise. 

Review all medications: Ensure they are not making you drowzy or dizzy. Thirteen percent of falls are caused by dizziness.

Have your eyes checked regularly: You need to see well – 3% of falls are caused by vision problems.

Reduce home tripping hazards: Thirty-one percent of all falls are caused by environment or accidents which are easily prevented. Ensure you wear good supportive shoes that stay on your feet and don’t fall off easily or catch on the floor. 

If you would like any further advice about balance exercises or strengthening exercises to help prevent falls please call us at Mangawhai Physiotherapy and we will happy to help out.

Online www.mangawhaiphysiotherapy.co.nz, or phone 431 4476.