By: Nancy Lorince, CSA, CDP, Managing Director | ComFor Care Home Care
92 East Main Street, Suite 305, Somerville NJ 08876 | 908-927-0500 www.comforcare.com
The threat of falls is a constant concern for many older adults. Almost everyone over 60 knows of someone whose life has been suddenly changed by a tumble resulting in a broken bone or head injury.
Now, it seems we have even more reason to worry. Surprising new research from the CDC shows that, among Americans aged 65 plus, fall-related deaths have tripled in the past ten years to more than 25,000 deaths a year.
The research, recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), tracked both men and women and found that the increase in fall-related deaths was about the same for each group. Lead researcher Elizabeth Burns said, “If deaths from falls continue to increase at the same rate, the U.S. can expect 59,000 older adults will die because of a fall in 2030.”
Exactly why the rates of fall-related deaths is increasing isn’t entirely clear, researchers said. One obvious explanation is that people today are living longer than ever before – and many of them live on their own or experience chronic conditions which leave them predisposed to falling.
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According to Dr. Burns, “The chance of falling increases with age, and risk is higher with certain chronic diseases, such as a history of stroke, arthritis, diabetes, dementia and Parkinson’s disease.” In addition, many medications common to older adults (such as blood pressure meds), make them prone to fall. Other risk factors include a sedentary lifestyle, chronic diseases, neurologic issues, and incontinence.
One in three adults over 65 takes a serious tumble every year – and even though most of those falls don’t result in death, the risk is always there. More often, however, a fall will result in a serious injury or permanent disability. According to Aging.com:
- When seniors fall, their hospital stays are almost two times longer than those of elderly patients who are admitted for any other reason
- Two-thirds of those who fall will do so again within six months
- One in ten falls results in serious injuries such as hip fractures, other fractures, subdural hematomas, or traumatic brain injuries
- One of the most profound effects of falling is a loss of confidence and independence
The important thing to remember is that falls can be avoided or reduced. In another study published in JAMA, a home-based strength and balance program was found to reduce falls in older adults by 36% in just 12 months. A few of the exercises that can help reduce risk include:
- Walking (both forward and backward!)
- Balance exercises such as Tai Chi or squats
- Resistance exercises with light weights or bands
When our home care nurses observe a client who is showing signs of muscle loss or balance problems they will immediately encourage them to speak to their doctor about obtaining a script for physical therapy. Medicare will usually cover this preventive measure, which can be done right in the client’s home if needed. Our certified home health aides often act as cheerleaders and safety coaches, encouraging their clients to keep up with their exercises between therapy sessions.
The New Jersey Division of Aging Services also runs a free community program called A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls. The program is designed to address the physical, social and cognitive factors affecting fear of falling.
For more information on how ComForCare Home Care can help with fall prevention for your loved ones don’t hesitate to call us at 908-927-0500.