Post by Carer on Aug 31, 2006 4:04:39 GMT 1
Information on falls prevention that will be of use to people at risk of falls and those caring for them
Definition of a fall:
A sudden unintentional change in position causing one to land on a lower level
Introduction
If you have had a fall, don’t panic. While falling used to be considered a direct result of ageing and went untreated, we now know that many things can be done to prevent falls. People under the age of 65 tend to fall due to environmental hazards but in the case of older people falls are more often due to a combination of problems. As we get older our deteriorating vision and hearing, balance, strength and coordination can all contribute to falling while side effects from certain medication also play a role. Additionally, as bone strength diminishes, we are more likely to break a bone such as the hip or wrist as a result of a simple slip, trip, fall or knock.
Most people believe that slowing down, various aches and pains and weakening muscles are unavoidable in old age. However, these are not a direct result of getting older but rather due to a decline in physical activity. This decline can often be reversed. Activity in older people is on the increase, for example the numbers of people over the age of 70 running marathons has shot up in recent years! While we don’t expect you to enter for a marathon, certain exercises can improve muscle strength, balance and co-ordination as well as strengthen bones. Staying active in general is very important. Walking, gardening, dancing are all helpful. Increasing your physical activity level is just one factor that will reduce your risk of falling.
More information on Diet / Exercise & Links to other info.
www.bhps.org.uk/falls/carersinfo.htm
Definition of a fall:
A sudden unintentional change in position causing one to land on a lower level
Introduction
If you have had a fall, don’t panic. While falling used to be considered a direct result of ageing and went untreated, we now know that many things can be done to prevent falls. People under the age of 65 tend to fall due to environmental hazards but in the case of older people falls are more often due to a combination of problems. As we get older our deteriorating vision and hearing, balance, strength and coordination can all contribute to falling while side effects from certain medication also play a role. Additionally, as bone strength diminishes, we are more likely to break a bone such as the hip or wrist as a result of a simple slip, trip, fall or knock.
Most people believe that slowing down, various aches and pains and weakening muscles are unavoidable in old age. However, these are not a direct result of getting older but rather due to a decline in physical activity. This decline can often be reversed. Activity in older people is on the increase, for example the numbers of people over the age of 70 running marathons has shot up in recent years! While we don’t expect you to enter for a marathon, certain exercises can improve muscle strength, balance and co-ordination as well as strengthen bones. Staying active in general is very important. Walking, gardening, dancing are all helpful. Increasing your physical activity level is just one factor that will reduce your risk of falling.
More information on Diet / Exercise & Links to other info.
www.bhps.org.uk/falls/carersinfo.htm