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I do NOT want to Fall !

Similar to the health complications associated with muscle loss...FALLING for older adults, is the most common reason for hospitalization and later immobility!



Why Do Falls occur?


Falls most often occur in and around the home, or during your activities of daily living.  There are a huge number of factors that contribute to an unexpected fall.  Fall risk factors include:


Intrinsic Factors (specific to each person): Age-related changes in physical function, chronic disease (i.e. diabetes or dementia or arthritis), adverse reactions to prescribed medications (or polypharmacy), being dehydrated, having a bad sleep, etc.


Extrinsic Factors (specific to one’s immediate environment): Type of flooring in your home, uneven or damaged walkways, clutter, moving objects, weather related conditions (i.e. ice or slush)


Situational Factors (Related to the activity being performed): Rushing to get out of the house or to the washroom, using unsafe methods of retrieving objects on a tall shelf, reacting to unexpected situations (i.e. traffic accidents or trying to catch a falling object)

Being aware of what the risk factors are
is important because you will know what to reduce or avoid, allowing you to prevent some avoidable falls. 

BUT remember, Avoidance is NOT a proactive plan!




Consequences of Suffering a Fall


Certain individuals are more susceptible to fall-related injuries than others, such as a broken hip or head injury. The severity of a fall related injury depends on an individual’s frailty (being weak/sickly) and not an individual’s age.  


Minor injuries: Occur with 30 – 50% of falls. Minor injuries include bruising, abrasions or cuts and overall soreness. 


Major injuries: Occur with 10% of falls. Traumatic brain injuries and hip, vertebrae or pelvic fractures are common major injuries resulting from a fall. A combination of the hospitalizations, followed by a long period of bedrest and the consequences of the injury itself, can lead to long-term disability, reduces one’s ability to take care of themselves and in some cases, death.


When the Fall Happens


Different people will react in different ways when they realise they are heading towards the floor fast! You may want to reach out and stop the fall with your hands, or you may not be able to react at all. Both scenarios come with their own injury risks.

And once you are on the floor, how do you get back up? For frail individuals, standing up from the floor may pose a challenge even without experiencing a fall.  It is important that you know how to utilise the space (i.e. furniture) to assist you in getting off the floor or have a plan in place for emergencies. Working with an in-home occupational therapist is also a good idea.

The number one issue for falls prevention and recovery is muscle loss and its associated complications.




Recovery from a Fall


After a major injury occurs (bone fracture, muscle tear or traumatic brain injury), rest and rehabilitation will be required to before you are able to return to your regular activities. Rest is the important first step in letting the body repair itself, but it is essential to seek treatment and get moving as soon as possible, with the help of rehabilitative specialists, such as physiotherapists or kinesiologists. Avoid bedrest once you are recovered enough to start functioning independently.



written by Elizabeth Georgiou, Kinesiologist
BODiWORKS Institute

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