Balance Problems and the Risk of Falling

by Joyce Remy

A balance and exercise program can help reduce the risk of falling no matter what your age or physical condition.

If you have taken a fall or if the possibility of falling is something that worries you you are not alone. Studies show that the risk of falling increases drastically as a person ages. They also show that most seniors put falling and fall-related injuries at the top of their list of things to worry about.

Each year, falls involving older adults account for thousands of hip fractures and other serious injuries. In fact, falling and injuries resulting from a fall are a leading cause of death for older persons. Not all falls can be prevented, but many can! So, it is important to understand the risk of falling and what can be done to prevent falls.

Why Older Adults Are At Greater Risk of Falling

As a person ages, physical changes make falling more likely. They also increase the chance that the person who falls will be injured. But physical changes to eyesight, balance, muscle tone, and bone structure are only one part of a bigger picture. Here are some of the major reasons seniors are at an increased risk of falling:

• Physical and mental changes Most older persons, sooner or later, will experience problems with their eyesight, sense of balance, mobility, bone structure, and reflexes. Confusion, forgetfulness, stroke, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's are also important risk factors.
  
  
• Environmental causes Throw rugs, electrical cords, wet and slippery floors, rough floor surfaces, slick walkways and steps, poor lighting are all examples of things or conditions that can trip you up.
  
  
• Medications Most seniors take a variety of medications, both over-the-counter and prescription. Many medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or other side effects that make it harder to keep your balance.
  
  
• Things you don't expect Often, a contributing cause in a fall is the circumstance you do not expect and have not prepared for. You lean against a door, thinking it is closed. You walk down a poorly lighted walkway, not prepared for the small pile of weeds and clippings someone has left there.

Practical Suggestions for Reducing Your Risk of Falling

Although it is unrealistic to think we can prevent all falls from happening, there are many proven ways of reducing the risk of falling. Here are some important examples of how you can protect yourself:

• Ask your doctor about setting up an exercise program to build up your strength and coordination. Or, if you are in a fitness program or are in physical or occupational therapy, make falls-prevention one of the issues you discuss. Make lowering your risk of falling one of the explicit goals of your program or therapy.
  
  
• If you have experienced episodes of dizziness, or if you think you may have a problem with balance, vision, or your medications, talk with your doctor. Be persistent in seeking answers to your questions. Ask to have balance and dizziness problems tested, diagnosed, and treated. Don't accept the view that falls are just part of getting older. You are entitled to the support of your doctor and other health care providers in making sure you take all reasonable steps to reduce your risk of being injured in a fall.
  
  
• Eat right. Getting the nutrition you need is just as important as getting appropriate exercise and rest.
  
  
• Be aware of your surroundings. Don't be tripped up by something you didn't anticipate. Plan your motions a little more ahead than you used to. Give yourself time to react to your physical surroundings and the other people around you. Pay special attention any time you are in new or unfamiliar surroundings. 
  
  
• Do a careful safety inspection of your living spaces. Look for anything that could trip you up, like rough floor surfaces, throw rugs, poor lighting, extension cords, clutter, etc. While you are at it, try to identify improvements that could make your situation even safer that could give you a critical margin of safety. Examples: extra grab bars in the bath or shower, a second hand railing on the stairs, etc.
  
  
• Make falls prevention a topic for discussion at your next doctor's appointment. If you are concerned about preventing falls say what your fears and concerns are. If you have experienced falls or problems with balance, vision, or medications, bring that history up. Make sure your doctor and care team are dealing with a full understanding of your situation. If they recommend testing or other steps, such as a change of diet or special exercises, take their advice.

Have You Taken the Falls Prevention Online Course Yet?

Seniors Digest is pleased to present our first online course, free to seniors, families and friends. To take the course, go to  www.seniorsdigest.org/fallscourse and read the instructions to begin.

2005, Caresource Healthcare Communications