Columnists

The Fear Of Falling… What To Do About It

susan-frazierIssue 9.10

The U.S. population continues to age, with population of older adults projecting to increase 50 percent by 2020, and double by 2030.  As a result, health care organizations and providers are paying closer attention to preventing falls with seniors.  The medical costs associated with falls have an annual cost of about $19 billion nationwide.  Hospitalizations from falls far exceed the number of auto related accident hospitalizations– for all ages combined.

Unfortunately, some of the elderly believe the “safest course” is to move less not more!  Sometimes the concern about the loss of independence, or the stigma of being labeled “too old,” can result in inactivity for our seniors.  Perhaps those who have experienced a fall with an injury may want to restrict their activity as a method of “self-preservation.”  But inactivity is the wrong choice, and can only increase the chances of future falls.  Why?  Because lack of exercise can actually make you more likely to develop muscle weakness, and poor balance.   This then increases the likelihood of a future falling incident. 

The answer to less fall risk is exercises geared toward maintaining lower body strength and balance. (ie: swimming with supervision provides resistance as well as support).  Tai Chi and yoga is highly recommended for those who are able.  (The SG Senior Center offers classes in both of these).  Any program which exercises in groups is more likely to be successful for seniors, and helps give them personal confidence, thus eliminating the fears associated with falling.   Other advice to help prevent fall risk– steer older adults away from prematurely relying on motorized scooters, walkers, and wheelchairs.  These create a dependence which may speed loss of a person’s strength and balance, because with too much reliance they may eliminate regular exercise programs.  Other advice—have your medications assessed for possible side effects, have an annual eye exam, make sure home lighting is adequate, install handrails, eliminate throw rugs, and wear shoes which are low-heeled and supportive.

Most skilled-nursing facilities are filled with patients who have had some type of injury fall.  To keep yourself independently in your own home, with limited fall risk, remember to get adequate exercise and follow the guidelines above.  Let’s keep you in your home without this fear, as long as you desire! 

Susan Frazier is an ownes of Care To Stay Home in St. George.  It is her desire to help assist seniors in their homes, and to help them remain as independent as possible.  Care To Stay Home is licensed by the State of Utah Health Department.  All caregivers are insured and bonded.  Call 435-652-4888.

 

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