Older people are more likely to have problems with their eyesight, movement and balance. They are also more susceptible to the bone-weakening disease osteoporosis, which makes their bones brittle and easier to break when they do fall. If you have a parent or ageing loved one who has had a fall or their balance is off, a chartered physiotherapist will be able to teach them exercises to increase their balance and therefore reduce their risk of falling.

Age-related vision diseases can increase the risk of falling. Cataracts and glaucoma can alter senior citizens depth perception, visual acuity and peripheral vision. It is therefore important for seniors to have regular eye checks so eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma can be detected early. It is also important people of all ages clean glasses daily to improve visibility.

Failure to exercise regularly can result in poor muscle tone, decreased strength, decreased balance and loss of bone mass and flexibility. These all increase the likelihood of experiencing a slip or fall and the severity of injuries sustained as a result of a slip or fall.

Additionally, seniors taking multiple medications suffer a greater risk of falling. I would advice a senior on more than one medication to talk to their doctor or pharmacist about ways to reduce their chances of falling by using the lowest effective dosage, regularly assessing the need for continued medication, and the need for walking aids while taking medications that affect balance.

For further information on fall prevention please read our new guide, Beat the Break: A Guide to Fall Prevention and Bone Health. If you would like a hard copy of this booklet please contact your local home care office.