Fall Prevention - Common Risk Factors

Dear Ask an OT,
I have two questions: 1. What are the common risk factors that cause falls? and 2. What if my loved falls?
Thanks,
Bob

Dear Bob,
There are both human and environmental factors that cause falls. We will give you a list of both.

Human risk factors related to falls:

• persons older than age 65

• impaired vision or hearing

• use of assistive devices for ambulation or support

• decreased strength, flexibility, proprioception, balance, or coordination

• previous history of falling

• a fear of falling, lose confidence in their ability to move around safely.
• this fear limits daily activities and mobility leading to increased feelings of dependence, isolation, and depression

• episodes of vertigo, seizures, or syncope (impaired balance or awareness)

• use of specific medications

• inattentiveness while walking

• alcohol or drug abuse

Environmental risk factors related to falls:

• uneven or irregular walking surface
• doorway thresholds
• area rugs, "throw" rugs, "scatter" rugs (hazards in the home)
• obstacles in the area (furniture, electrical cords, toys, miscellaneous objects)
• insufficient lighting
• wet, icy, snow covered, or waxed surfaces
• steps, especially those with a tread that overhangs
• absence of nonskid strips or mat in the bathtub
• no handrail on either side of stairs or steps
• chairs with unstable base or without armrests
• no handrails in the shower or bathtub

If your loved one begins to fall, you should:

• do not try to stop the fall - you will both get injured

• try to support his/her head and gradually ease him to the floor

• if you are behind him/her, let him gently slide down your body

If your loved one has fallen and is on the floor, you should:

• ask if he/she is okay, check for injury

• if he/she appear injures, in pain, or can't move - call 911 immediately

• if he/she needs more than minimal help to stand, do not attempt to lift him by yourself

• if he/she isn't injured - ask him if he can get up safely

• if he/she can stand - bring a chair close to him- ask him to roll onto side, get onto his knees, then support himself with the chair seat while he stand up

 

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Caregivers, do you have any specific questions pertaining to this blog?

We are here to help you! If you have any further questions for our experts, please post them in the comment box below or email them to asu.ask.an.ot@gmail.com. Questions are reviewed and answered weekly. Each expert is a registered and licensed occupational therapist. Visit ASK an OT's first blog post to read more about our experts, Dr. Susan Philhower Denham Ed.D, OTR/L, CHT and Dr. Jewell J. Dickson, OTD, MPH, OTR/L, ATP.

Disclaimer: The information contained on this blog is intended for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, substitute for medical advice, nor is it a referral for occupational therapy services. You should consult a physician regarding medical diagnosis or treatment.

 

Resources:

1. Pierson, F.M. & Fairchild, S.L. (2008) Principles & Techniques of Patient Care. St. Louis, MO:    Saunders Elsevier.