Instability and falls

What age group is generally most affected by instability and falls?

Generally speaking, the elderly population are at a higher risk of suffering from instability and falls, due to their decreasing mobility and decreasing muscle strength. 

What are the statistics surrounding instability and falls?

Unsteadiness and falls are considered to be one of the biggest problems facing older people, generating frequent problems in the care of the elderly. International statistics show that about 1/3 of people aged 65 and over living at home suffer a fall each year and, of these, about 1 in 40 have to be admitted to hospital as a direct result of the fall. 

What are the main risk factors?

Of course, anyone can fall, whether it be due to a simple loss of balance, tripping over an untied shoelace, or perhaps misjudging a step on a staircase.

However, older people are typically more susceptible to experiencing falls, particularly if they are suffering from a health condition. People who have Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis, but to mention a few, are at a particularly high risk of experiencing instability and falls. 

Other health conditions that can cause instability and falls include the following: 

• vision impairment
• muscle weakness
• balance problems
• heart disease
• dementia
• low blood pressure
• dizziness

How can one prevent a fall at home?

Although instability is mainly influenced by health conditions that, in the majority of cases, cannot be improved, falls can certainly be avoided at home.

People should follow the following measures to reduce their chances of falling at home: 

• use non-slip mats in the bathroom, particularly in the shower or bath
• make sure all spills on the floor are dried up quickly
• remove clutter
• avoid lifting heavy objects wherever possible

People can also reduce their chances of instability and falls by scheduling regular eye tests, doing strength and balance-focused exercises, and also going for an electrocardiogram to check their blood pressure. 

What specialists can help treat instability and falls in the elderly?

Geriatricians are the experts when it comes to treating and dealing with instability and falls, particulalry in the elderly.