Brain Injury Association of New York State

Safe Seniors

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Scope

People age 65 years and older represent the highest rate of brain injury associated with deaths. Falls are the second leading cause of brain injury for seniors.
Over 30 percent of all fatal falls involve people 75 years and older who make up only 4% of the population.
Falls are an especially serious problem for the elderly as falls are among the most common cause of injury and death.
One in three seniors fall at least once or more, with 60 percent of fatal falls occurring in the home, 30 percent in public places, and 10 percent in health institutions.
Among the elderly, falls are the most common cause of injury visits to the emergency department.

Causes of Falls

Physical factors that contribute to falls include: dementia, visual impairment, general frailty, brain-related disabilities, muscle and bone-related disabilities, chronic illness and difficulties with gait and balance.
External factors associated with falls among the elderly include a history of one or more prior falls, lack of exercise, use of certain medication, improper footwear and hazards in the home.

Preventing Falls

Exercise Regularly:

Regular physical activity is one of the best ways to reduce your chance of falling. It increases strength and improves sense of well being.
Exercise that improve balance and coordination (such as Tai Chi) are especially helpful. Health providers should be consulted for the best type of exercise program.

Home Safety Check:

Remove things that might be tripped over (such as magazines, clothing and shoes) from stairs and walking areas.
Store items used often in cabinets that can be reached easily without using a step stool.
Install grab bars in the tub or shower and next to the toilet. Use non-slip mats on the bathtub and shower floors.
Improve lighting in the home. Brighter lights may be needed to see well. Lamp shades or frosted bulbs can reduce glare.
Install handrails and lights on all stairs and outside.

Have your health care provider review medicines:

A doctor, pharmacist, or other health professional should look at all the medicines taken (including over the counter medicines.)
Medicines can have varying affects as one ages. Some medicines, or combinations of medicines, can cause drowsiness, light-headedness, or confusion, which can lead to a fall.

Wear Safe Shoes:

Wear sturdy shoes with thin, non-slip soles instead of running shoes with thick soles. Avoid Slipping!
The elderly should wear shoes at all times - especially around the house. Floppy slippers and stockings can increase the risk of falling in the home.
About 3/4 of all falls occur at home during normal daily activities.
Shoes should be firmly fastened. Cotton lace or Velcro closings are good choices.
Shoes should have non-skid soles with less than a 1 1/2 inch heel, containing enough space for the toes to lie flat and straight, be lightweight and supportive. The shoes fabric or leather should surround the entire foot.