TREND 4: FALL RISK Identify Risks and Implement Treatment to Build Strength
Falls and related injuries are an ongoing, significant concern for Skilled Nursing and Assisted Living providers.
Reasons for falls may vary from changing health conditions and decline in strength to changes in balance, conditions affecting vision and lack of safety awareness due to cognitive impairments.
FEAR OF FALLING? WHO HAS A
40% - 73% of those who’ve already fallen
ALMOST 50% of those who haven’t
Source: Jung, D. 12 Catalog 11223
Falls can cause minor injuries such as a scrape or bruise or major injuries such as fractures and head injuries. Many seniors who fall, even if they’re not injured, become afraid of falling, which may result in a reduction of normal everyday activities. This decline in activity can result in decreased strength, thereby increasing the risk of falls.
Effects of a fear of falling: Reduced ADLs Reduced physical activity Lower perceived physical health status
Lower quality of life Increased hospitalization Source: Jung, D.
