Statistics/Facts
What percentage of falls are preventable?
2/3 of falls are preventable!
True or False. Falling is a NORMAL part of aging.
FALSE! Falling is not a normal part of aging.
What can you do to prevent falls if you have impaired vision?
1) Get vision checked regularly
2) Wear appropriate glasses/contacts
3) Improve lighting in environment
True or False. Our environment can increase our risk for falls.
TRUE! Clutter, obstacles, narrow pathways, etc can cause us to have falls.
An OT will complete a home safety assessment, provide recommendations on DME/adaptive equipment, educate on the safest way to complete every day tasks.
True or False. Most falls occur outside of a person's home.
FALSE! 80% of falls occur indoors in the person’s own environment during usual activities
True or False: Our environment can increase our risk for falls.
TRUE! Clutter, obstacles, environmental set-up, all can impact our risk for falls.
What are the 3 body systems that control balance?
1) Inner ear
2) Vision
3) Proprioception
This type of gadget can be used to help pick up items from the floor or hard to reach places.
A long-handled reacher
TRUE or FALSE. Someone who is non-ambulatory and relies on a wheelchair for mobility, is not at risk for falls.
FALSE. Anyone can fall.
True or False. Most falls occur during the day.
TRUE- Most falls occur during the day, only 20% of falls occur at night.
What type of footwear is best to wear?
Properly fitted, supportive, skid-resistant shoes.
What is the medical term for low blood pressure?
Hypotension
What can you use in the shower to help improve safety?
Shower chair, grabbar, long handled sponge, non-slip mat.
True or False. Participating in exercise will increase your risk for having a fall.
FALSE! Participating in exercise will decrease your risk for falls.
How many fall related injuries are treated in the ED each year?
Each year, falls contribute to 3 million injuries treated in emergency departments
TRUE or FALSE: if you use a RW or SPC, you should only use it when inside your home and use nothing when you are out in the community.
FALSE! If an assistive device has been prescribed by a therapist for you to use, it should be used for ALL mobility and not impacted by the location, unless instructed by your PT or OT.
What medical condition makes you feel like the room is spinning?
Vertigo--often caused by issues with the inner ear. Can increase falls in older adults.
True or False. It is safest to put our socks and shoes on while standing
FALSE!
How many minutes of exercise should you participate in weekly?
150 minutes of moderate exercise.
Falls are the #1 cause of what type of fracture?
Hip
Taking this many medications increases your risk for falls.
Taking 4 or more medications increases your risk for falls.
What are 3 medical conditions that can contribute to increased falls?
Arthritis, cardiovascular disease, visual impairments, PVD, diabetes (impaired sensation in feet), vertigo
Name 3 potential hazards in your home environment that could lead to a fall.
1) clutter
2) narrow pathways
3) cords
4) slippery/wet surfaces
5) hard to reach items (in drawers, closet, kitchen)
6) throw rugs
7) other people!
8) pets
TRUE or FALSE. Strength training alone will decrease your risk for falls.
FALSE. Addressing flexibility, endurance, strength, balance training.