By Beth Stember, PT
Each year, millions of people age 65 and older fall. And falling once doubles your chances of falling again.
One out of five falls causes serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury, reports the CDC. Most falls occur indoors, at home.
Common risks for falls:
- Dizziness, vertigo or lightheadedness
- Weakness from recent or chronic illness, or inactivity.
- Neuropathy – numbness or tingling in your feet that makes it hard to feel how you’re standing.
- Incontinence that makes you hurry, especially at night when it is harder to see where you’re going.
- Dizziness, vertigo or lightheadedness: “Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo” (BPPV) is a common disorder of the inner ear that can cause dizziness, unsteadiness and nausea. BPPV is the most common cause of vertigo, especially in people over 65. Good news: There’s treatment for BPPV, with vestibular therapy.
How to reduce your risk of falling:
- Manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, COPD, and high/low blood pressure. Take your meds as prescribed; stay hydrated and eat regularly. Use your prescribed cane or walker if recommended.
- Seek treatment for dizziness or imbalance: Your provider can help determine if it’s a medication side effect, or BPPV, or another cause. A vestibular therapist can help with balance and dizziness. Ask your provider for a referral.
- Address incontinence: Physical therapists who treat incontinence can help improve your quality of life – reducing risk of falls is just one benefit.
- Stay active with 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This keeps your body strong, especially your core – crucial for balance. If you need help, a physical therapist can design a fitness program based on your level and your limitations. Ask your provider for a referral.
- Keep pathways clear inside and out: Keep sidewalks clear from snow and ice, and walkways in your home free from clutter. Consider a home health safety evaluation for safety suggestions.
- Keep a light on at night for trips to the bathroom.
NH+C’s Rehabilitation Services teams in Lakeville and Northfield can help keep you steady and well. Our therapists can help you recover from injury or illness. They start with your current level of function, and work with you to meet your goals and make the most of your abilities.
Physical therapist Beth Stember, PT evaluates and treat a variety of neurologic and orthopedic conditions at NH+C’s Rehabilitation Services clinic in Lakeville. She especially enjoys working with adults who have neurologic conditions, vestibular issues, and balance challenges.