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Fall Prevention in Older Adults

Fall Prevention in Older Adults. Facts About Falls. More than 1/3 of older adults fall each year In 2004, 1.9 Million older adults were treated for fall-related injuries Nearly half of falls occur in or around home. Facts About Falls.

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Fall Prevention in Older Adults

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  1. Fall Prevention in Older Adults

  2. Facts About Falls • More than 1/3 of older adults fall each year • In 2004, 1.9 Million older adults were treated for fall-related injuries • Nearly half of falls occur in or around home

  3. Facts About Falls • Of those who fall, 20% to 30% suffer moderate to severe injuries • Once a person falls, they are more likely to fall again

  4. Falls are a Big Problem in Texas! Data from Texas Trauma Registry, 2007

  5. Facts About Falls • Of those who fall, 20% to 30% suffer moderate to severe injuries. • Once a person falls they are more likely to fall again. CDC reported in an article that once a person falls or stumbles they are “two to three times more likely to fall within the next year.” • As many as 50% of older patients requiring hospitalization after a fall die within one year

  6. Injuries Caused by Falls • 95% of hip fractures are caused by falls • Fractures of pelvis, wrist, arms, and back are commonly seen • Neck fractures and head traumas are seen in 2% to 10% of all falls

  7. Personal Risk Factors • Osteoporosis • Vision problems • Multiple medications • Feet problems • Inadequate footwear • Lack of activity • Previous falls

  8. Environmental RisksIn-Home • Slippery flooring and carpeting • Throw rugs • Improper lighting • Clutter • Exposed electric cords • Lack of assistive devices

  9. Environmental RisksOutdoors • Sidewalk, curb, and terrain conditions • Poor lighting • Hazardous materials • Crowded areas

  10. How to Prevent Falls:Regular Medical Checks See your doctor regularly for: • Annual physical exam • Vision check • Medication review • Blood pressure check

  11. How to Prevent Falls:Stay Active • Structured exercises in a gym, walking, sweeping, gardening, Tai Chi, Yoga, personal care activities. • Staying Active will increase your chances to have more years of active independent life, reduce disability, and improve your quality of life.

  12. How to Prevent Falls:Home Safety Assessment • Complete a Home Safety check-list and Make Modifications

  13. Example of possible Home Assessment Findings Leaks that cause wet floors Inadequate Lighting Pets Uneven door threshold Different types of Flooring Throw Rugs

  14. How to Prevent Falls:Check Your Feet! • Feet and footwear check

  15. How to Prevent Falls:Use Assistive Devices • Canes, walkers, and hip protectors are known to reduce the gravity of injuries when you fall. • If you use a cane or a walker, make it YOURS! It may save you from a very severe injury and your loss of independence. • Take your time!

  16. Need Help? • Golden Crescent Area Agency on Aging: 1-800-574-9745 http://www.gcrpc.org  • Texas 2-1-1 You are Important! Stay Safe!

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