According to the CDC, more than 25% of people over the age of 65 suffer from a fall each year. This is such a serious concern because, among older patients, falls can cause seriously debilitating injuries that include fractures and head trauma. Falling once can double your chances of falling again, leading to even more serious issues. 

Learning about the most common causes of falls in the elderly population is a critical step in prevention and safety. That’s why we’re happy to share this informative overview that covers some key contributors that can lead to an increased risk of falling. If you have any questions, or want to learn about how physical therapy can address certain causes of falls, we’re here to help. 

Significant causes of falls in the elderly population

While some causes that lead to an increase in fall risk are unavoidable, there are others that can be addressed. By learning about these more controllable common causes of falls among the elderly, you can have a better understanding of how to be proactive in addressing them. 

These causes can include:

• Muscle weakness — As we age, our muscles begin to naturally deteriorate, leading to declines in strength and stability. This makes it easier for us to lose balance and fall. 
• Decreased coordination — It’s also common for our connections between the brain and body to slow down when we get older as well, leading to a slower response time to stimuli that can make it more difficult to recover when we slip or lose our balance. 
• Lack of mobility — Another faculty that declines is our range of motion. This can be due to a lot of factors, including breakdown and stiffening of joints and connective tissue. 
• Unsafe conditions — Slippery surfaces, unsecured furniture and obstructed walkways can definitely make it more likely that a dangerous fall can occur. 

Learn about the benefits of physical therapy for elderly patients 

While no one can stop the natural aging process, being proactive about these risk factors can help. One of the most qualified specialists you can see to address these and other common causes of falls in the elderly population is a physical therapist. A qualified therapist can help you create a customized treatment plan designed to strengthen muscles and increase coordination and range and motion through balance and gait training. You can also discuss fall prevention strategies and safety at home.

At Rehab Access, our caring and dedicated clinical team has years of experience in helping elderly patients receive the therapy they need to reduce their fall risk. To learn more and schedule your initial appointment, contact us today.