Fall PreventionFall Prevention in Older Adults in Older Adults

Facts About FallsFacts 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 FallsFacts 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

Type of InjuryType of Injury Number of InjuriesNumber of Injuries

Assault 10,842FallsFalls 42,248 42,248 (41% of Total)(41% of Total)

Burns 2,516Motor Vehicle Crash 28,472Other Unintentional injury 15,817Self-Inflicted 1,510Undetermined 795Unspecified 545

TOTALTOTAL 102,745102,745

Falls are a Big Problem in Texas! Falls are a Big Problem in Texas!

Data from Texas Trauma Registry, 2007

Facts About FallsFacts 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 As many as 50% of older patients requiring hospitalization after a fall die within one yearhospitalization after a fall die within one year

Injuries Caused by FallsInjuries 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

Personal Risk FactorsPersonal Risk Factors

• Osteoporosis• Vision problems• Multiple medications• Feet problems• Inadequate footwear• Lack of activity• Previous falls

Environmental RisksEnvironmental RisksIn-HomeIn-Home

• Slippery flooring and carpeting

• Throw rugs

• Improper lighting

• Clutter

• Exposed electric cords

• Lack of assistive devices

Environmental RisksEnvironmental RisksOutdoorsOutdoors

• Sidewalk, curb, and terrain conditions

• Poor lighting

• Hazardous materials

• Crowded areas

How to Prevent Falls:Regular Medical Checks

See your doctor regularly for:

• Annual physical exam

• Vision check

• Medication review

• Blood pressure check

How to Prevent Falls:How to Prevent Falls:Stay ActiveStay 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.

How to Prevent Falls:How to Prevent Falls:Home Safety AssessmentHome Safety Assessment

• Complete a Home Safety check-list and Make Modifications

Uneven door thresholdDifferent types of Flooring

Inadequate Lighting

Pets

Throw Rugs

Leaks that causewet floors

Example of possible Home Assessment FindingsExample of possible Home Assessment Findings

How to Prevent Falls:How to Prevent Falls:Check Your Feet!Check Your Feet!

• Feet and footwear check

How to Prevent Falls:How to Prevent Falls:Use Assistive DevicesUse 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!

Need Help?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!