Simple precautions can prevent falls
Author Kurt Vonnegut's recent death from brain injuries sustained in a fall has shone a spotlight on the fact that preventable falls can often lead to injury and death in the elderly.
Jan Akus, MD, a member of the Backus medical staff, said falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths in males older than 80 and females older than 75.
He said it is important to monitor and assess medications, and be aware of drug and alcohol interactions as well as the use of sedatives and sleeping pills.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in three adults older than 65 fall each year. More than 13,700 people over 65 die each year from injuries related to falls. About 1.8 million seniors visit hospital emergency rooms for non-fatal injuries, and about 460,000 of those patients are hospitalized, CDC statistics show. About half of all falls occur at home, the data show.
To try to prevent falls, Dr. Akus said elderly people living at home should avoid having loose rugs and install railings if needed. He said it can be helpful to replace door knobs with levers, which are easier to open. Grab bars can also be installed near toilets and in showers and tubs.
Older people also should avoid wearing robes, long gowns and loose slippers, which are often a culprit of falls. Remove any loose cords and use a cordless phone. This way a phone can be kept nearby, and an elderly person doesn't have to rush to answer it.
He said glass coffee tables can be dangerous, as they can cause injuries if fallen into, and also can be hard to see.
Adequate lighting also is important at home. Nightlights can be used in hallways and bathrooms.
Geoff Fabry, a Backus Hospital physical therapist, said the three main systems of concern are the eyes, ears and feet.
The eyes should be checked regularly. If there are inner ear balance issues, these can be evaluated by a doctor or physical therapist. As for the feet, Mr. Fabry said to check for range of motion, good stepping reaction and good sensation. If there are problems that can't be improved, then a patient will be evaluated and assist devices can be recommended, such as a cane, walker or rolling walker.
Exercise can help improve balance and gait.
"It is good to be proactive, to improve muscle tone and balance by exercising, which will help prevent falls in the long run," Dr. Akus said.