Fall-induced injuries and deaths among older adults are a leading cause of injury and hospitalization in the United States. Falls can result in serious injuries such as fractures to the hip and spine. However, many falls can be prevented. A number of factors contribute to the risk of falling. To help prevent falls, you need to be able to identify and address patient risk factors. This is a key element of a well-planned and interdisciplinary care plan. The plan should be customized to the needs of each patient. In addition, it should include the patient's response to interventions.
Other factors that contribute to falls include age-related loss of muscle mass, known as sarcopenia. Patients with diabetes and heart disease may also have trouble balancing. Medications that affect the central nervous system and cause confusion may also increase a patient's risk of falling. |