Falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths worldwide. Falls can happen anywhere, at any time, to persons of any age. Adults over 60 years of age are at greatest risk of fatal falls. Falls often result in serious consequences such as fractures, loss of independence, and even death.
How at risk are you?
Lower risk: you are an older adult with no history of falling, or had one non-severe fall, and no problems with balance or walking.
Medium risk: have had a single fall, and have some problems with balance or walking.
Higher risk: have had a single fall with injury, multiple falls (>2) in the past year, have frailty, were unable to get up after this fall without help for at least an hour, may have lost consciousness or continence.
Your physiotherapist is able to assess how at risk you are and what strategies to put in place to prevent further falls. They may assess:
- Your muscle strength, mobility and flexibility
- How stable you are, e.g., while walking or doing daily tasks
- Your thinking skills and memory
