What can the elderly do to decrease their number of falls?

Lots of things!  Lifestyle modifications are best: structured exercise programs and home safety interventions (like get rid of throw rugs and electrical cords across walkways).  Multifactorial assessment and inv=tervention programs reduce the rate of falls, but not the risk of falling.

What has NOT been found to work?  Vitamin D supplementation AND education about fall prevention has not been shown to decrease the rate or risk of falls.

Why is this so important?  1/3 of people older than 65 years old fall each year.  Falling once doubles a person’s chance of falling again.  One out of every five falls causes a serious injury like a head injury or a broken bone.  If an elderly person falls and requires hospitalization, their average bill is usually over $17,000.  Wow!

So, exercise and keeping the home free and clear of clutter underfoot are key!

I hope this helps.

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