Good Lifestyle

Falls represent a serious risk for the elderly, often leading to bone fractures,head injuries, and more. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP),Falls are the main cause of accidents In adults over 65, and the main cause of serious injuries and accidental deaths in the elderly. "Even the elderly who seem to be strong and well can fall," write AAFP experts - and some factors can make falls much more likely.

In fact, yourchance to fall Increased considerably if you have done something in the past two weeks, they plan - and it is a common phenomenon in the elderly. Read the rest to know which factor temporarily increases your risk of falling and how to avoid a serious accident accordingly.

Read this then:If you are over 65, don't keep this in your bathroom, experts warn.

WithLonger life expectancy The creation of an increasing population of elderly people around the world, falls have become an increasing concern for health care. "As people age, they aremore and more at risk of falling And the resulting injuries, "wrote the World Health Organization (WHO) Europe in a 2004 report." The prevention of falls is of major importance because they generate considerable mortality, morbidity and suffering for the elderly and their families, and lead to social costs due to admissions to hospital and nursing homes ", Say their experts.

WHO adds that 30% of people over 65 fall each year and that the risk increases with age. "Between 20% and 30 percent of those who fall suffer injuries that reduce mobility and independence," they say.

RoughlyA tenth of all falls require emergency assistance, and 60% of these falls requiring assistance involves fractures, indicates that a 2013 study published in the journalTherapeutic progress in drug safety.

Read this then:If you are over 65, never use these furniture in your home.

Some factors make you more vulnerable to a serious fall, according to experts. In particular, the AAFP warns that a fall is more likely during the two weeks after changing medication - which means that you should be particularly prudent to monitor your step if your doctor recently prescribed something new, or has extinguished one of your existing drugs.

You can mitigate this risk by working with your health care provider to make a plan for your transition. This can mean you wean your medication gradually, or start a new low -dose medication to monitor symptoms and side effects. "Whatever you do,Do not stop taking the drug Not to mention your doctor first, "saidHarvard Health Publishing. "If you start a new medication and you feel that you have new symptoms or your symptoms are getting worse, you should contact your doctor right away."

Some drugs are more likely than others to lead to a fall, explains the AAFP. "The side effects of certain drugs can upset your balance," they write, noting that depression drugs, sleep problems and high blood pressure generally contribute to accidents. "Some drugs for diabetes and heart disease can also make you unstable on your feet," they add.AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

Taking several drugs at the same time can also increase the risk of fall because they can cause unexpected interactions. "You might be more likely to fall if you take four or more medicines," said AAFP experts.

Make sure to keep a main list of each medication you take and share it with your medical team, including your primary care doctor, specialists and pharmacists, especially if your medicines have been prescribed by various doctors.

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In addition to taking additional precautions with your drugs, several other measures can help youReduce your risk of falling.

According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), staying physically active to maintain strength, have vision and hear regularly verified, sleep enough and limit your alcohol consumption can all help prevent a fall. In addition,Wearing safe shoes, being careful on slippery surfaces, and keeping your house well lit and free from dangerous obstructions will also help you protect yourself.

"Always tell your doctor if you have fallen since your last exam, even if you are not injured when you fall," recommends NIA. "A fall can alert your doctor to a new medical problem or problems with your medication or your sight that can be corrected. Your doctor may suggest physical therapy, walking assistance or other steps to help prevent falls future. "

Best Life offers the most recent information from high -level experts, new research and health agencies, but our content is not supposed to replace professional advice. Regarding the medication you take or any other health issue you have, always consult your health care provider directly.