Falls among Elderly and things to consider

Falling is the action of a person losing stability and ending up in a lower position, often on the ground. It is the second leading cause of accidental death worldwide and a major cause of injury, especially for the elderly.

Falls in elderly individuals are often caused by a combination of factors, including age-related changes, medical conditions, and environmental hazards. These factors can affect balance, mobility, and cognitive functions, increasing the risk of falls.

• Muscle weakness
• Balance problems such as age-related decline in sensory input
• Gait impairments
• Cognitive impairments
• Visual impairments
• Hearing loss
• Arthritis
• Stroke
• Low blood pressure (corrected from “Low Low-pressure”)
• Parkinson’s disease
• Dementia
• Heart conditions
• Osteoporosis
• Side effects of some medications
• Home hazards
• Outdoor hazards
• Inappropriate footwear
• Inactivity

Key factors contributing to falls in the elderly:

Elderly people are more prone to falls at home due to age-related physical changes and environmental hazards. These factors can increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls, leading to potential injuries. Older adults living alone face a significantly increased risk of falling compared to those living with others. Studies indicate that individuals living alone are 2 to 2.25 times more likely to experience a fall. This increased risk is attributed to various factors, including reduced social support, potential decline in physical function, and a higher likelihood of environmental hazards within their homes.

Research in the UK consistently shows that falls are a significant problem for older adults, particularly those aged 65 and over, with many experiencing at least one fall per year. Around a third of people aged 65 and half of those over 80 fall at least once annually, and falls are a leading cause of injury and death in this age group. Birmingham is in the top 25% of local authorities for falls and injuries in the 65-79 age group, with higher-than-average falls-related emergency admissions. It is estimated that in South Birmingham alone, there are 18,000 falls per year among people aged 65 and over.

To prevent falls in-home for elderly individuals:

• Remove hazards
• Improve lighting
• Install grab bars
• Use non-slip mats
• Consider assistive devices
• Organize storage
• Address slippery surfaces
• Secure cords and wires
• Ensure proper footwear.

Supporting Fall Prevention at Home

Domiciliary care plays a vital part by delivering safe and high-quality care. Supreme Care Birmingham, a home care service situated in the heart of Birmingham, is able to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment at an individual’s home if you or your loved one are at risk of falling at home. We have implemented personalized falls prevention plans which include our staff members reminding people about the importance of regular movement, assisting them with safe movement/transfers, supporting them with safe footwear and clothing, and assisting with walking aids, etc. All our staff members are fully trained in understanding falls, prevention methods, and emergency management in the event of a fall. Supreme Care home care service supports home assessment not just by collecting information but by actively contributing to a complete picture of each client’s well-being. This leads to safer, more personalized, and more effective care. Please contact Supreme Care Birmingham by calling us or filling out the online form if you have any concerns about your loved one’s safety at home. The free assessment will be completed within a day, and we are only a call or email away whenever you need us.