Falls

Falls are a leading cause of injury and hospital admission in older adults. Hip fractures, head injuries and loss of independence after a fall are common in Indians above 65. Most falls are preventable.

Who is at higher risk

• Age 65 and above.
• Previous fall in the last year.
• Poor vision (cataract, glaucoma).
• Muscle weakness, especially legs.
• Balance problems (Parkinson's, stroke, inner-ear disease).
• Medicines that cause dizziness or drowsiness — some BP tablets, sleep tablets, antidepressants.
• Low blood pressure on standing (orthostatic hypotension).
• Alcohol.

Home hazards to fix

• Loose rugs, mats, wires across floors.
• Wet bathroom floors — add non-slip mats; install grab bars near the toilet and shower.
• Poor lighting — use a night light to the bathroom.
• Stairs without handrails.
• Cluttered floors and passages.
• Poorly fitting footwear — chappals and loose slippers cause many falls. Use well-fitting footwear with a closed back, ideally both at home and outside.
• Uneven floors, steps at doorways.

Body strategies that help

• Exercise that improves strength and balance — walking, tai chi, simple chair exercises, yoga. Even 30 minutes most days helps.
• Eye check annually after 60 — address cataract and update spectacles.
• Hearing check — balance and hearing are linked.
• Medication review — ask a Health Expert if any current medicines could cause falls; many can be adjusted.
• Calcium, vitamin D from diet, sun, or supplements — helps bone strength and reduces fracture if you do fall.
• Raised toilet seats and shower chairs for those with significant weakness.

If someone falls

• Stay calm, don't pull them up immediately — check for severe pain first.
• Pain in the hip, inability to move a leg, bleeding from the head, or confusion — dial 112.
• If unhurt and able, help them to a stable sitting position, then slowly to standing.
• A single fall, even without serious injury, deserves a Health Expert visit to work out why.