When it comes to the biggest health risks for older adults, falls often seem to be the most common. It’s to be expected because our bodies aren’t going to be the same way forever. Over time, age can decline the body in more ways than one. Physically and from a mobility perspective, age can make the body more fragile and prone to injury.
Falls remain a huge health risk, which is why it’s important to know what contributes to this and how to avoid them from happening or at least mitigate the risks that usually come with them.
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Personal health factors
There are several personal health factors that contribute to the risk of falling at an older age. Let’s take a look at what these are:
Muscle and balance
Age-related muscle loss can occur and which contributes to a weaker balance system in general. Remaining steady becomes a lot more difficult, and that makes potential falls more of a risk.
Vision and hearing
Vision and hearing can be a problem when it comes to your age, too. From cataracts to glaucoma and hearing loss, these are all important when it comes to stability and hazard detection.
Chronic conditions
Diabetes, arthritis, neurological issues, and heart disease are all contributors to mobility and balance. High blood pressure is another chronic condition that can influence a person’s mobility around the home and when out and about.
Medications
There are certain types of medication, especially when drugs are taken with one another, that can cause problems like dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion.
Foot problems
Foot problems from poorly-fitted shoes, unsafe footwear, or just general pain in the foot can contribute to the risk of falling. After all, your feet are responsible for keeping you planted on the floor for the most part.
Environmental factors
The environment can also play a big role in the risks that come from potential falls. These include the following:
Home hazards
The state of the home is quite possibly the main contributor to falls, especially if there’s a lot of clutter lying on the floors. Slippery floors are also a potential issue, especially in areas like the bathroom or kitchen.
Poor lighting is something to be mindful of, and unsecured rugs are also major risks to be attentive to. The use of a fall alert button is common when it comes to helping those who have taken a tumble alone and need help fast.
Community
Unsafe neighborhood designs can be a problem, as well as a lack of accessible transport can lead to restricted activity and increased risk of falls.
Falls are incredibly dangerous for anyone, but particularly for the elderly. Falls from standing height can cause severe fractures to the hips, spine, and wrists.
These serious injuries can cause a lot of problems with pain and potential loss of life in some cases. While they’re not completely avoidable, it’s good to do everything you possibly can to help your older relatives with keeping them safe from falls.