Falling is the leading cause of death and injury for Medicare age adults (those of us 65 and older).
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
- One in four Americans aged 65+ falls each year.
- Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall; every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall.
- Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults.
- Falls result in more than 2.8 million injuries treated in emergency departments annually, including over 800,000 hospitalizations and more than 27,000 deaths.
- In 2015, the total cost of fall injuries was $50 billion. Medicare and Medicaid shouldered 75% of these costs.
- The financial toll for older adult falls is expected to increase as the population ages and may reach $67.7 billion by 2020.
Despite theses grim statistics falling should not and does not have to be an inevitable part of the aging process. Seniors and their loved ones can make lifestyle adjustments as well as simple (and affordable) modifications to their homes to drastically reduce the likelihood of a fall.
Seniors should find a fitness program that focuses on balance, strength and flexibility. Staying active and strong develops (or maintains) confidence and independence. Even if a senior hasn't fallen the fear of falling can be enough to reduce their quality of life. Seniors often become shut in because of the fear of falling. There are many community resources who can help seniors find a fitness and wellness program in their community. A simple Google search is also a great place to start.
If you (or a loved one) are at risk of falling reach out to your healthcare providers. Talk to them about your fears and be honest with them if you have already fallen. This conversation should include a review of all prescribed and over the counter medicines. Some of these medications, supplements and over the counter products can increase your risk of falling. More importantly you need to make sure you should still be taking all of these medications and ensure they are not contributing towards your risk of falling.
If a new medication is ever prescribed (including over the counter medications and supplements) be sure to ask about possible side effects or negative interactions with ALL of your current medications. Create a list and share this list with your family and healthcare providers. Furthermore, make sure it is easily accessible in the event of an emergency. If you can't speak it is imperative that someone can give the doctors treating you an accurate and up to date list of of all medications (include dosage and frequency of each medication). For more on Medication Management (and mis-management) click here.
Medicare offers several preventative benefits that can help prevent many conditions that contribute to falls. Be sure to review your Medicare or Medicare Replacement policy carefully so you are aware of all the benefits your policy provides. Click here for more information.
Like other organs in the human body our eyes become less effective as we age. Regular eye exams can go a long way in reducing the likelihood of a fall. Seniors should ensure their prescriptions are up to date and be careful when wearing transitioning sun lenses. Be sure the lenses have completely transitioned when moving to an indoor environment. The darker lenses can be problematic once indoors. Having a separate pair of sunglasses might be a better idea for some seniors. Bifocals can also cause problems, especially when climbing stairs.
There are many simple (and inexpensive) modifications that can be made to a seniors home to help prevent falls. Throw rugs should be avoided or taped down so they don't ruffle or slip. Other carpets and rugs should also be taped down or secured. Lighting should be increased throughout the home. Grab bars should be installed throughout the bathroom (toilet, tub, shower etc.) and a non slip mat or surfaced should be utilized in the shower or tub. Be sure all stairs have two handrails and check for broken or loose steps. Install night lights to brighten the path the bathroom, and keep a flashlight by your bedside. It will also be helpful to remove the springs from self closing storm doors.
If you or a loved one are at considerable risk of falling you may want to speak with your doctor about having an Occupational or Physical Therapist access your home environment and physical capabilities.