Falls - The Consequences

Not only do we become more likely to fall as we get older, we also become more likely to injure ourselves.

Osteoporosis is a primary reason for this as our bones become less forgiving. This means that a fall from standing height is more likely to result in a fracture.

Wrist fractures are the most common as we automatically put out our arm to try and cushion the blow when landing. Much more serious but also common is the hip fracture. This usually requires orthopaedic surgery and is associated with a much more difficult recovery. Many people who fracture their hip never return to their previous level of mobility, some require residential care, and around 20% of elderly people suffering a hip fracture will die within a year of their fall.

This is why prevention is far better than the treatment. Any one at risk of falls or who is falling should consider using a mobility aid. If they are already using one and are still falling it should be re-evaluated as more support may be required. An inappropriate aid can be as bad or worse than no mobility aid at all.

Many people get attached to whatever they are using and are resistant to change but a fall or a few close calls should be a warning sign that their mobility level has changed and the required level of support may have changed as well.