What are some risk factors for falls? Where do falls for older adults usually occur? Does the risk increase as people age? Besides pain and discomfort, falls may also cause social and psychological side effects. Read on to better understand how falls may negatively impact your life, especially for an elderly person.
In Singapore, about one-third of older adults aged 60 and above have fallen more than once. Falls can be dangerous for an elderly person as they may result in hip fractures, especially among women, who have 18% risk of getting a hip fracture in their lifetime. This risk is about 6% for men.
The risk of fractures is higher in people who have osteoporosis. A hip fracture can result in loss of function and mobility, and studies have shown that there is an increase in the number of deaths in the year following a fracture.
Did you know that most falls for older people happen in the home? In fact, the majority of these falls occur in the bedroom and living room. Environmental hazards in the home such as slippery floors or loose cords, visual problems and ill health also increase the risk of falls for older persons.
Falls can result in a variety of complications ranging from fractures to long-term hospitalisation and loss in self-esteem and confidence. Because the consequences of falls are numerous and significant, falls and its resulting injuries—whether they’re hip fractures or head injuries—are important health issues that cannot be overlooked. Here are some of the ways that a fall may negatively impact someone.
Physical consequences
Social consequences
Psychological consequences
Falls can result in:
Get tips how to prevent falls and what you can do to reduce the risk of falling from the Health Promotion Board.
Download the HealthHub app on Google Play or Apple Store to access more health and wellness advice at your fingertips.
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This article was last reviewed on 15 Nov 2022
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