FALLING DOWN
Many elderly become frail and fall down- causing multi million dollar injuries. But much of that can be avoided. A recent study of 2,328 elderly practicing Tai Chi were able to reduce falls by 13% and reduce injuries by 25%. About 30% of those over 65 fall at least once per year and 10% to 15% of these cause injuries. A 1977 study showed that 6% of all medical care was spent on care of unintentional injuries, mostly from falls. Such injuries are the 6th leading cause of death among the elderly and cost about $4 billion annually. (Majority of falls are due to drinking.)
PREVENTING FALLS AT HOME: (Lux Gargiullo) Accidental falls are a leading cause of hip fractures and even death among older adults. While most falls are actually caused by alcoholism, the Alzheimers patient is likely to fall because they are confused and forgetful and often wander or pace. In order to reduce serious injury here are some suggestions:
In the bathroom:
use non-skid floor rugs
use rubber mats or decals in the tub
install sturdy grab bars and tub and toilet area
use a bath bench and handheld shower
keep the night light on
In the kitchen:
wipe spills up immediately
do not use high gloss floor wax
keep the clear path
In the bedroom
keep the night light on
keep a clear path from bedroom to bathroom
avoid or firmly secure small rugs or carpets
In the living room:
avoid clutter and obstacles such as newspapers and grandchildren toys
keep telephone and electrical cords out of traffic lanes
secure all carpet edges
ensure adequate lighting
Clothing:
put rubber soles and heels on shoes
fasten shoe with laces or Velcro
bedrooms slippers should be closed
hems on pants, long skirts and robes should not be torn or too long
Outdoor walkways:
make sure footing is safe-no loose bricks, etc.
keep clear of lawn mowers, choice, newspapers, etc.
make sure it is well lit at night
All Fall Down: Falls in the Elderly - What Can Be Done? (Medical Journal of Australia 2000) Falls generate diagnostic and rehabilitative dilemmas for a variety of specialists in a range of settings. In older people, falls are associated with significant mortality and morbidity and frequently lead to a decline in physical and/or psychological function, ultimately encroaching on independence and autonomy. In addition to the costs to the individual, falls consume significant resources in terms of hospital admissions, bed utilization, and use of other health and allied services. With an aging population, the problems associated with falls and injury will escalate unless there is a coordinated and effective approach to prevention and intervention.
In the United States, trauma causes a considerable proportion of presentations (and subsequent hospital admissions) of older patients. Falls account for most of these presentations.4 The annual incidence of all falls increases from 25% at age 70 years to 35% after the age of 75; the risk increases with age and is higher among those living in long-stay institutions.5 Up to 10%-15% of falls result in serious injury, of which at least half are fractures. Even falls not resulting in injury may have serious psychological consequences. The "postfall anxiety syndrome" and fear of falling leads to decreased activity, and ultimately an increased risk of future falls. Patients have reported continued disability two months after a fall.
Falling down: (2002) Some 12 million elderly Americans fall down each year, resulting in billions of dollars in medical bills. 25% of the elderly who fracture a hip during a fall -- among the most common injuries -- die within one year, and 75% never regain the quality of life they had before the fall.
Preventing the Fall: Designs on Building Safe Homes for the Elderly (2003)
Protecting the Elderly from Falls
Tips to Help You Care for Aging Parents