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Managing diseases and taking appropriate precautions can stop old people from falling.
A fall can cause serious harm to an elderly person, and can even be fatal.
Studies indicate that more than a third of Singaporeans above the age of 65 have suffered a fall, with half of those aged above 80 falling at least once a year.
By taking precautions, falls among older people can be prevented, said Dr Vina Doshi, consultant, Department of Geriatrics, Changi General Hospital (CGH). Dr Doshi runs the Falls Clinic at CGH with a team of physiotherapists and nurses trained to treat elderly patients who have already suffered a fall. They also teach patients and their family members how to reduce the likelihood of further incidents.
“Demand for this service has increased as family doctors and caregivers are now more aware that it is not natural for old people to fall, and that such incidents can be prevented,” said Dr Doshi.
Overall, the number of elderly patients seeking treatment at the clinic has risen more than five times – from just 41 in 2007 to 223 last year. About 68 per cent of patients are women.
Poor vision can cause a fall
A fall can be caused by many factors, including poor vision or balance, slow reaction time, muscle weakness and joint problems. “Poor vision is one of the main causes of falls in the elderly,” said Dr Doshi. “Some brush off eye conditions such as cataracts simply as a sign of ageing, but it is very important to get treatment because not being able to see clearly can directly result in more frequent falls.”
Drinking alcohol and taking medicine that causes drowsiness are other factors, as are a poor diet, lack of exercise, a home that has poor lighting, obstacles and slippery floors. People who suffer from medical conditions like diabetes, stroke, dementia and arthritis are also prone to falls.
Consequences can be serious
For an elderly person, a fall can result in minor injuries like scratches and abrasions, or it can have more serious consequences such as fractures, broken bones and head trauma. In some cases, a fall may lead to permanent disability or death.
Even if no injury is sustained, a fall can have consequences such as:
- a loss of confidence
- reduced mobility
- a loss of independence
- a decline in social activity
- feelings of hopelessness and depression.
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