Falling and fall-related accidents are among the most common and life-threatening medical injuries suffered by seniors, the elderly and older adults- 65 years and older.
Are You A Likely Candidate To Fall
I’m often asked by family member caregivers and member/clients who use our First Response medical alert system and 911 emergency monitoring service, what are the key indicators (I aptly call them ‘predictors’ or ‘drivers’) that might provide early detection that an older adult or loved one is a likely candidate to experience a fall. Based on the most recent medical studies, published medical journal articles and case studies, here are some key predictors to look for:
- Past history of falling or recent falls
- Existing balance and/or gait abnormalities (i.e. imbalance, vertigo, bodily injury)
- use of one or mixture of several medications
- Impaired vision and/or dizziness
- Various degrees of a sedentary lifestyle (lack of daily physical activity)
- Home environmental hazards (i.e. floor clutter, closed pathways, raised rugs, poor lighting, slippery surfaces)
Take This Quick Self-Test To Find Out
Answer “Yes” or “No” to these 12 questions to assess your specific level of fall risk:
1. I have fallen in the last 6 to 12 months.
2. I use or have been advised to use a cane or walker as an assistive device.
3. I have trouble negotiating pathways at home; or I have floor clutter and/or limited walkways.
4. I steady myself by holding onto furniture at home.
5. I have to hold onto armrests while getting up from a chair or sofa.
6. I have anxiety that I will fall in the near future.
7. I have trouble stepping up to a curb or step(s).
8. I often have to rush to the bathroom.
9. I have trouble keeping balance or negotiating coming down stairs or stairwell.
10. Medication cam make me dizzy, tired or lightheaded.
11. I often feel sad or depressed.
12. I take medication to to combat/relieve stress, anxiety or depression.
Effective preventative measures and the growing awareness of “fall prevention” safety in the public, private and medical profession sectors have substantially improved over the past 5 to 10 years. If 2 or more questions were answered “Yes” in your self-test or are apparent in a loved one, we strongly urge you to consult with your primary physician or local health care provider regarding preventative programs for falls and an annual wellness appointment evaluation.
As always, we recommend you invest in our First Response medical alert system for the home to provide 24/7 emergency medical response in the event of a fall or related accident.
“I am very uneasy and have had many falls after my surgery. Ordering the First Response system was easy and I even set it up myself. I have had to use my alert button a few times so far. My daughter has even been contacted after I had taken a few falls. My First Response system has worked great each time I’ve needed it!”