In elderly populations, a fall can be a devastating event. For adults over the age of 65, statistics show that one in three will fall once a year. Of these falls, about one in four will result in a serious injury. The most serious of these injuries is usually a hip fracture, which can lead to serious health complications, even death.
The health care cost of treating injuries resulting from falls in the elderly is enormous. In 2000, the costs were roughly $19 billion. Estimates from various agencies show that this figure will more than double in the next decade. The Archstone Foundation estimates that the cost of care will be over $43 billion by 2020.
Of the patients that fall victim to major fractures following a fall, the key finding is that a majority of these patients have either osteoporosis or osteopenia, a lesser form of bone density loss. This loss of bone density causes an increase in the risk of a fall resulting in a fracture.
It is imperative to the health of the elderly to maintain optimal bone density, particularly those that are prone to falling. Predisposing factors such as aging, being female, and having low body weight coupled with and inactive lifestyle can exacerbate the effects of osteoporosis, leading to osteoporotic fractures. Ways to combat this loss of bone density include taking calcium and vitamin D supplements, as well as getting an appropriate amount of exercise.
For an elderly person, it may be unreasonable for them to be running on a regular basis, as this could lead to serious injuries. However, in most cases a walking program can be established with the help of a doctor to ensure that the exercise will be appropriate.
Beyond living a healthy lifestyle and considering bone density a critical part of health maintenance, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the possibility of falls in the elderly.
Things like exercise programs are great for maintaining a good fitness level, particularly programs the focus on balance training. Eye examinations can be an overlooked source of balance training. For people that are prone to falls, it is important that they wear shoes in the house, especially shoes with a rubber sole. Socks and wood floors can make for a very slippery scenario!
Small adjustments can be made around the house to avoid falls as well. Loose electrical cords, unsecured rugs, and darkly lit rooms and hallways all pose a certain level of risk for the balance-compromised person. Making sure to secure loose obstructions will help to minimize the risk of a fall.
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