Common causes of the elderly to fall

The number of seniors having accidental falls is staggering. According to the National Institute on Aging, one in three people age 65 years or older fall each year. In fact, falls are the leading cause of death, injury, and hospital admissions among the elderly population.

• Physical decline: Your eyesight, hearing, and reflexes might not be as sharp as they were when you were younger.
• Disease: Diabetes, heart disease, or problems with your thyroid, nerves, feet, or blood vessels can affect your balance.
• Medications: Some medications can cause you to feel dizzy or sleepy, making you more likely to fall.
• Safety hazards in the home or community environment. Examples include loose throw rugs, poor lighting, icy sidewalks, and risky footwear.
• Confusion can sometimes lead to falls. For example, if you wake up in an unfamiliar environment, you might feel unsure of where you are.

It’s important to understand the causes of falls and identify which ones are most likely for you or your elderly loved one. Once you have determined the most likely causes, there are a number of precautions you can take to prevent falls. You can review these tips for reducing your risk of falling.

You can also watch this video to learn creative ways to recover from a fall.