Falls are a common problem among seniors - every third person over 65 falls at least once a year. Fractures are often the result of falls in seniors. Find out why they are so dangerous and how you can prevent them.

In the elderly, falls and bone fractureswhich occur as a result of them are a serious problem.Fallsoccur most frequently in seniors while performing basic activities of everyday life, such as standing up, sitting down, bending over or walking. A sometimes inconspicuous fall, in the case of a senior, can have many negative consequences. The more serious ones include fractures, the treatment of which in the elderly is often long and limited by many factors. The causes of falls in this age group can be divided into two basic groups - internal and external.

Internal causes of falls

They are related to the so-called involutional (senile) changes, i.e. atrophic processes caused by the aging of all body systems. We are talking about slowing down the reaction of the nervous system to stimuli, weakening of muscle strength, balance disorders, circulatory disorders, deterioration of eyesight, hearing and coordination of movements. In addition, the functioning of the aging body in seniors is influenced by accompanying diseases, i.e. cardiovascular, neurological (Parkinson, post-stroke), metabolic (diabetes, osteoporosis) or diseases of the musculoskeletal system (degenerative changes, deforming after past injuries) . Elderly people also often struggle with mental illnesses, such as dementia, depression and anxiety. The medications taken are also important - side effects include dizziness, distraction or lowering blood pressure, which in many cases reduces the general well-being. All these factors can significantly impair the way the senior moves, increasing the risk of his fall.

External causes of falls

This includes all environmental factors that make it difficult for an elderly person to move around, e.g. slippery floor, moving rugs, stairs, too high thresholds, no handles at home or in the means of communication, inadequate lighting or deterioration of weather conditions (snow , ice on pavements).

Consequences of falls

The most common effects of falls among seniors include hematomas, contusions, muscle strains, bone fractures and skull injuries (concussions, intracranial hemorrhages), the consequences of which often appear some time after the accident itself. It is also worth mentioning the so-called post-fall syndrome, caused by the fear of another fall, manifested by the limitation of daily physical activity, in order to minimize its probability. It significantly impairs the functioning of the respiratory, circulatory, musculoskeletal systems and mental state of the patient - and so limited by age changes, and directly affects the deterioration of their quality of life.

Fractures in the elderly - why are they so dangerous?

The most common fractures after falls are those in the femur, humerus, and further down the forearm, just above the wrist. Fractures within the vertebrae and ribs are less common. The most dangerous for the elderly are those in the area of ​​the lower limbs - even the least complicated, they can cause many complications. This is mainly due to the necessary immobilization, which can lead to very serious complications, e.g. pneumonia, peripheral circulatory disorders, deep vein thrombosis, pressure ulcers, urinary tract infections, impaired intestinal motility (constipation), worsening of osteoporosis, muscle wasting, etc. Time immobilization depends primarily on the treatment used. The longer it is, the more side effects it can cause. The patient's condition does not always allow for surgical treatment, which significantly extends the time of lying down and - in the worst case - may lead to death.

How to secure a senior?

Prevent potential falls, first of all! After getting acquainted with the causes of falls mentioned above, it is worth analyzing his situation and, if possible, eliminating those that concern him. It is worth taking a look at the immediate surroundings - even the apartment. Providing it with handrails or bathroom handles, supports or non-slip mats will definitely facilitate functioning. The footwear our senior wears is also important - it should be light, equipped with non-slip soles and adapted to any deformations in the foot area. It must also provide adequate stabilization of the ankle. In some cases, it will be necessary to select the appropriate auxiliary equipment, such as a cane, crutches or a walking frame. If a person's general he alth deteriorates, it is worth sending them to a doctor and taking possible treatment or modifying the doses so farmedications.

Physioprophylaxis - why is it so necessary?

In addition to the above-mentioned tips, the most important thing is to systematically work on the physical fitness of an elderly person, because it is it that enables everyday functioning, independent of third parties, and minimizes the risk of falling. A qualified physiotherapist will help you, who will create an exercise program that is right for you.

The physiotherapist should teach the patient to safely change positions, and if there is a fall - to follow the fall.

Such a program should include exercises aimed at appropriate joint mobility and flexibility of the surrounding tissues, muscle strength, balance, coordination and general body efficiency. Proper mobility of individual joints ensures their full use during the basic activities of everyday life, without the need for compensation, which often overload the neighboring joints. Leaning down to pick something up off the floor or a higher leg lift to avoid an obstacle in our way are examples of such activities. The appropriate strength of the muscles of the lower extremities means the possibility of walking a longer distance or greater efficiency in climbing stairs. Confidence and efficiency of gait will ensure balance and coordination. Overall efficiency, on the other hand, will allow you to function in everyday life without the rapid accumulation of fatigue - in an elderly person it may be going to go shopping without the need to sit on a bench from time to time to rest.

Worth knowing

Elderly people are a group particularly vulnerable to falls, which are often a serious threat to their he alth and even life. There are many risk factors, but most of them can be eliminated. The most important thing in this case is prevention. Appropriate physioprophylaxis will not only significantly reduce the risk of such incidents, but also enable the elderly to lead an independent, active life and, above all, improve its quality.

Category:

He alth