Falls are the Main Reason Why Many Older Adults Lose Their Independence

Posted on

Mar 11, 2020

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When you think of aging, what do you worry about most? Is it a heart attack or stroke cutting life short, or perhaps cancer? While these illnesses are very real worries for everyone as they age, it may surprise you to discover that falls are the second leading cause of accidental death in the United States, and 75 percent of these falls occur in the older adult population.


Falls are the single largest cause of injury among seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC) National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, older adults are hospitalized for fall-related injuries five times more often than they are for injuries from other causes. One-third of older adults who fall, sustain a hip fracture and are hospitalized, die within a year.
Even if a fall does not result in hospitalization, fear of falling can become a major factor in seniors quality of life. Fear leads to inactivity and loss of confidence which in turn produces a cycle of fear, loss of self-confidence and inactivity.
Emotional Impact:
People who have fallen often hold onto furniture or walls for balance, look down at the floor when walking instead of straight ahead, delay going to the bathroom, getting a drink of water or performing other activities to avoid the possibility of falling again.
Social Impact:
After a fall, many people avoid going to activities outside the home to reduce their risk of falling. By avoiding social activities, aging adults will miss family functions, seeing grandchildren or connecting with friends. Lack of socialization can cause loneliness, sadness and depression.
As one ages mobility and agility limitations require a fresh look at the everyday contents of the home. It is important to recognize that things like throw rugs that once didnt warrant a second thought, now become household hazards. Clearing clutter from walking paths and making sure hallways and stairways are well-lit along with plugging lamps into outlets near the wall so cords are tucked away becomes essential. Grab bars and non-slip mats in the bathroom as well as clothing considerations are also critical elements to any fall prevention plan. Simply knowing the risk is there and taking a focused approach to mitigate that risk is the first step to minimize the possibility of one of these life-altering falls occurring.
Editors Note: Dr. Roberta A. Newton, Ph.D., Temple University College of Health Professions in Philadelphia has spearheaded efforts to study and research why falls occur and how they can be prevented. Visiting Angels has partnered with Dr. Newton to increase the public awareness and importance of this sometimes overlooked issue. This article was submitted by Visiting Angels of McKinney. They may be reached at 214-491-1999.

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