CHECK-UP:Older people can take measures to cut their chances of falling and breaking bones, writes MARION KERR.
I READ with interest last week’s column on fractures. Many of my friends who, like me, are in their late 70s have had a least one. Why do bones break so easily when we get on in years?
A simple trip or slip can result in serious injury for an older person. A fractured bone might not be so bad in the young but, in older people, a break can be the start of more serious problems. As we age our eyesight, hearing, muscles and reflexes might not be as acute and so make it more likely that we will fall. Diabetes, heart disease or problems with your thyroid, nerves or blood vessels can all affect balance while many medications can cause dizziness.
Osteoporosis is a condition that makes bones weak and more likely to break. Older people should have a special test called a bone mineral density test done which will show if you have osteoporosis.
If you do then measures can be taken to strengthen the bones, making them less likely to break in a fall. Medication to strengthen the bone and staying physically active will help. Regular exercise improves muscle strength and keeps your joints, tendons and ligaments flexible. Mild weight-bearing activities, such as walking or climbing stairs, may slow bone loss from osteoporosis. Always tell your doctor if you have fallen since your last check-up – even if you weren’t hurt when you fell.
Is there anything practical I can do to prevent falls at home?
By making a few changes around the house you can help prevent falls. Mount grab bars near toilets and on both the inside and outside of your bath and shower. Place non-skid mats or slip-resistant flooring on all surfaces that may get wet.
Put night lights and light switches close to your bed and keep your telephone where you can reach it. Electric cords and telephone wires should be fixed to walls and kept away from walking areas.
Tack down all carpets and remove all rugs. Arrange your furniture (especially low coffee tables) and other objects so that they are not in your way when you walk. Make sure your sofas and chairs are at the right height for you, so that you can get in and out of them easily.
Stay away from a wet floor. Keep the things you use regularly in the kitchen within easy reach. Don’t stand on a chair or table to reach something that’s too high – use an “easy reacher stick” instead.
If you use a step stool, make sure it is stable and has a handrail on top. Try to have someone standing next to you. Keep emergency numbers in large print near each telephone.