How to prevent falls at home and protect the mobility of older adults

Maintaining autonomy and safety at home is essential for healthy aging. One of the main causes of hospitalization and loss of independence in older adults is falls, often caused by minor oversights in the home.

The good news is that most of these falls can be avoided with simple preventative measures and small daily adjustments.

Why is falling so dangerous for the elderly?

As we age, it's natural for changes in balance, muscle strength, and bone density to occur. Additionally, some chronic diseases and the use of certain medications can increase the risk of imbalance and dizziness.

A seemingly minor fall can cause serious fractures, requiring hospitalization, surgery, and long rehabilitation periods. In addition to the physical impact, there's also the fear of falling again, which often leads to reduced mobility and a loss of independence.

How to prevent falls at home

Simple measures can make a huge difference in home safety:

• Remove loose rugs from the floor;

• Install grab bars in bathrooms, especially near the toilet and shower;

• Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, avoiding loose slippers or slippery sandals;

• Ensure good lighting in all rooms, including at night;

• Avoid wet floors and slippery surfaces;

• Keep frequently used items within easy reach, avoiding the need to climb on stools or ladders;

• Exercise regularly to strengthen muscles and improve balance.

These changes have a direct impact on reducing the risk of falls and can prevent potentially serious fractures.

Most common fractures in elderly people after falls

The most common fractures in this group of patients include:

1. Hip fracture (proximal femur - femoral neck fracture or transtrochanteric fracture): This usually occurs after a fall from a standing position, causing severe pain and the inability to support the limb. Treatment is usually surgical, with the placement of pins, screws, or a hip prosthesis, followed by physical therapy to restore function.

   
   

2. Wrist fracture (distal radius): This occurs when the elderly person tries to support their hand to prevent a fall. Treatment may be non-operative (with immobilization) or surgical, depending on the severity.

   
   

3. Spinal fractures: These can occur even after mild trauma, especially in those with osteopenia or osteoporosis. Treatment varies depending on the severity and may include immobilization, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgical procedures such as vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty.

   
   

4. Shoulder (proximal humerus) fractures: These are often associated with pain and limited arm movement. Non-operative treatment may be considered in stable cases. However, in more severe cases, where the fracture fragments have displaced, surgical treatment may be indicated.

Women are more susceptible to fractures in old age, primarily due to the hormonal changes that occur during menopause. Reduced estrogen (female hormone) levels accelerate bone loss and promote the development of osteopenia and osteoporosis, making bones more fragile and prone to fractures even after minor falls.

Prevention is the best business

Promoting health in old age goes far beyond treating illnesses. It means working on prevention, guiding environmental adaptations, and encouraging habits that keep seniors active and safe.

Fractures resulting from falls can lead to a loss of functional independence, making it difficult to return to daily activities and profoundly impacting quality of life. In more severe cases, a lack of adequate mobility and function can even increase the risk of clinical complications and mortality.

Therefore, investing in prevention is always the best approach. Small changes in daily life can prevent major complications and preserve health.

Medical evaluation and monitoring

If you or a family member has a history of falls, imbalance, or osteoporosis, it's important to undergo an individualized orthopedic evaluation. This can help identify risk factors, provide guidance on safe exercises, and, when necessary, initiate treatment for bone strengthening and health.

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