Articles
Falls Fact Sheet
Facts about Senior Falls
- More than 1/3 of adults 65 and older fall each year.
- In adults 65 years and older, falls are the leading cause of injury-related death.
- In older adults, falls can result in fractures, traumatic brain injury, and serious injury leading to a decline in independence.
- 2/3 to 1/2 of falls in older adults occur in or around the home.
- The risk of falling increases exponentially with age.
- Seniors who have had one fall, or who stumble often, are 2 to 3 times more likely to fall within the next year.
- In seniors 75 and older, those who fall are 4 to 5 times more likely to be admitted to a long term care facility for a year or longer.
Fall Risk Factors
- Femals are at greater risk than males and falls tend to result in greater injuries.
- Previous falls or frequent stumbling.
- Physical limitations or visual impairments.
- Having one or more chronic disease (i.e. history of stroke, Parkinson's, Neuromuscular disease).
- Taking 4 or more medications or using psychoactive medication.
- Wearing shoes with thick, soft soles (jogging shoes).
- Clutter or poorly lit areas result in falls in and around the home.
Fall Prevention at Home
- Kitchen
- Keep commonly used items within easy reach.
- Avoid using floor polish or wax.
- Use a sturdy step stool with a handle to reach items on high shelves.
- Keep appliance cords out of the way.
- Bathroom
- Install grab bars around tub and beside toilet
- Install non-skid mat or applique to tub/shower floor.
- Install non-skid surface on any wet area.
- Install a hand held shower head.
- Use bath bench in bath-tub.
- Living Room
- Keep electrical and telephone cords out of the way.
- Arrange furnature so it is easily moved around.
- Remove throw rugs.
- Remove caster wheels from furniture.
- Ensure chairs and tables are easily manuevered around.
- Outdoors
- Repair cracks and abrupt edges of sidewalks and driveways.
- Install handrails on both sides of steps and stairs.
- Ensure full lighting to all areas, especially around walkways and doorways.
- Keep all walkways free of clutter, rocks, and debris.
