​Falls Prevention in Older Adults

​A fall is defined as any event that leads to an unplanned, unexpected contact with a supporting surface, such as the floor or a piece of furniture, that is not the result of a push or shove or the result of a medical event, such as a heart attack. 

A near fall, however is a stumble or loss of balance that would result in a fall if you were unable to catch yourself. 
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Top Risk Factors

• ​Muscle weakness
• Gait changes
• Balance changes
• Fear of falling 
• Timid walking - less foot clearance (shuffling), bent knees to lower the center of mass and reduction in arm swing that balances the movement of the legs 

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Modifiable Risk Factors  

• Multiple medication ---> Regular medication review
• Altered mobility and safety ---> Functional ability tests
• Visual acuity ---> Regular eye exams/single vision lenses
• Changes in foot biomechanics ---> Podiatry review 
• Home hazard evaluation

The fall risk affecting the largest number of adults age 65 and over was home hazards, with an estimated of 38 million individuals demonstrating a risk for falls. By taking care of these factors, falls can be prevented.​

Source: Levasseur, D. (2022). Home Safety/Falls. PowerPoint Presentation. ​