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FALLS AND OLDER ADULTS: THE FACTS  How serious is the problem of falls?Falls are a serious health risk for older adults in Minnesota and nationwide. Minnesota's death rate from falls for adults 65 and older is the fifth highest in the nation, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control. Nationwide, more than one out of three adults over the age of 65 fall each year. For people in this age group, falls are the leading cause of injury death and fall-related death rates are increasing. Non-fatal falls also have serious results: 20% to 30% result in moderate to severe injuries that reduce mobility and independence, and increase the risk of premature death. Falls are also a significant health care cost issue. The direct cost of fall injuries for people age 65 or older in 2000 was $19 billion (in current dollars), a figure projected to reach $43.8 billion by 2020. What are the common risk factors for falling?Several risk factors have been identified:  Lower body weaknessProblems with walking and balanceTaking four or more medications or any psychoactive medications (medicines that have a significant effect on mood or mental state)Other important risk factors are Parkinson's Disease, history of stroke, arthritis, impaired cognitive processes (memory, perception, reasoning, judgment), and problems with vision. How can we reduce the risk of falling?To effectively prevent falls requires a number of related efforts: 1) Exercise regularly to increase lower body strength and balance Exercise will build strength and increase a sense of well-being. It's one of the best ways to reduce the risk of falling. Exercises that improve balance and coordination are most helpful. 2) Review medications with a doctor or pharmacist A regular review of all medicines (both prescription and over-the-counter) with a person's regular doctor or pharmacist can help reduce side effects and interactions. It may be possible to reduce the number of medications used, and those that could make a person drowsy or light-headed. 3) Keep on top of chronic health conditions and vision Seniors should see a health care provider regularly for chronic conditions and have an eye doctor check their vision at least once a year. 4) Make the home safer Many seniors spend most of their time at home, so it's not surprising that one half to two thirds of all falls occur in or around the home. Most fall injuries happen when people fall from a standing height (for example, when they trip while walking) and on the same level, not from falling down stairs. Researchers have found that simply modifying the home does not reduce falls. However, certain risk factors in the home environment may contribute to about half of all home falls. Common hazards that can be changed include tripping hazards, lack of stair railings or grab bars, slippery surfaces, unstable furniture, and poor lighting. To make living areas safer, seniors should: Remove tripping hazards such as throw rugs and clutter in walkwaysUse non slip mats in the bathtub and on shower floors; install grab bars next to the toilet and in the tub or showerInstall handrails on both sides of stairwaysImprove lighting throughout the home.Also, seniors should wear shoes that give good support and have non-slip soles. They should avoid wearing slippers and athletic shoes with deep treads. Where can I find more information?For more information about preventing falls among seniors, see Minnesota Safety Council (interactive fall prevention checklist) at http://www.minnesotasafetycouncil.org/seniorsafe/falls/Centers for Disease Control at http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/duip/spotlite/falls.htmThe Practical Guide to Universal Home Design at http://www.wilder.org/download.0.html?report=949 Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (info on home accessibility remodeling design and funding) at http://www.mnhousing.govMinnesota Falls Prevention Initiative, http://www.mnfallsprevention.org
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