Causes of Recurrent Falls in Elderly People

Causes of recurrent falls in elderly

As people age, they can suffer physical, sensory and cognitive changes that make it more difficult to stay balanced and maintain stability. Vision loss, for example, can impair a senior’s ability to detect and perceive the presence of hazards that could lead to a fall.

Declining health, including muscle weakness and joint stiffness, can also make it harder for a senior to walk and maneuver their way around a home or community. Medical alert This can also increase the likelihood of a fall and aggravate existing medical conditions that might be worsened by falling.

In many cases, it’s possible to prevent falls from happening in the first place by taking steps to ensure a senior’s safety at home and in the community. Simple changes, such as installing grab bars in bathrooms and increasing the lighting in hallways, can help to keep your loved one safer.

Medication-related causes of falls

Some medications can increase a person’s risk of falling because they may affect how steady they are on their feet or because they can affect balance. If your loved one is taking any medications, have their doctor review their medications to see if any are known to increase the chances of a fall.

Behavioral factors, such as failing to modify activities to account for new or increasing difficulties, can also contribute to a fall. For instance, a senior with an existing health condition that makes it more difficult for them to carry a laundry basket from room to room might not be willing or able to adapt their routine in order to reduce the risks of falling.