Falls Can Be a Serious Problem for Seniors

Though not inevitable, falls are a real problem for seniors.  Three out of ten people 65 and older who live in the community will fall every year.  And a fall may result in a serious decline in the quality of life.

Factors known to contribute to the likelihood of falling include problems with balance or gait, lack of sensation in the lower extremities and inappropriate footwear.  Medications may also increase one's risk.  Individuals taking four or more prescriptions are statistically more likely to fall than those taking fewer prescriptions.

Perhaps more surprising, one’s eyewear can make falls more likely.  People who wear bifocals or trifocals have more problems with falls than those who wear single-vision lenses.

Some people experience a drop in blood pressure immediately upon standing, which can result in a fall.  Sometimes simply moving one’s arms and legs to encourage circulation before attempting to stand can help the situation.

Assistive devices like canes, walkers and scooters can help those in the most danger of falling.  However, many people find that their risk of falling can be lessened through exercise and physical therapy, as described in this segment from "Seniors: Living a Quality Life."