Normal changes of aging, such as poor eyesight or poor hearing, can increase the risk
of a senior falling. Even if they appear strong and well, illnesses and physical conditions
can affect their strength and balance and falling can be a threat to their ability to live on
their own. The senior’s medical history may include past falls, medical conditions,
mental health, past surgical procedures, use of medication and alcohol.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), falls were the leading cause of
death from injury among persons 65 years and over. Among seniors who fall and have
fractures, those seniors with hip fractures have the most serious consequences.
Arecent analysis published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, found that both falls and
non-vertebral/hip fractures occur frequently in elderly individuals and lead to substantial
morbidity (illness/disease) and mortality (death), as well as additional cost to the
healthcare system. It is estimated that beyond the age of 80 years, one of three women
and one of six men will have sustained a hip fracture. The cause of falling can vary, but
one risk factor is the use of certain types of medications. Combinations of medications
can be a risk factor as well.
The consequences of hip fractures are severe: 50% of older people have permanent
functional disabilities, with 15-25% requiring long-term nursing home care, and 10-20%
die within one year.
There are two groups of risk factors:
1. Extrinsic Risk Factors– factors outside the person – includes physical environment,
assistive devices and footwear. Extrinsic factors are related to the person’s physical
environment, including their home, such as poor lighting, slippery floors, or throw rugs. It
also includes any assistive devices such as use of a cane, walker, or wheelchair and
inappropriate clothing or footwear. Any of these can increase a person’s risk of falling.
2. Intrinsic Risk Factors– factors originating with the individual – includes normal aging
changes, diseases (chronic and acute), and medication use. Intrinsic factors are related
to how well the person can see, how well they can walk or maintain their balance, what
kind of muscle strength they exhibit, and how well they can endure physical activity. For
these reasons, diseases that affect the cardiovascular, neurological, or musculoskeletal
systems can increase an older person’s risk of falling. For example, the pain of arthritis
can limit an older person’s mobility. A diagnosis of cancer and treatment for the disease
can weaken an individual. Treatment can also cause anemia, making the older person
more fatigued.
Comfort Keepers provides in-home care to seniors and the elderly living in Ocala, Gainesville, and The Villages, Florida. We provide superior in-home care to seniors and the elderly throughout Central Florida so they can live enriched independent lifestyles! Call us today at 855-592-0013.
