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Falls

Modified on Sat, Feb 11, 2023 at 9:23 AM

 

Falls are a common cause of injury, with outcomes ranging from minor bruises to life-threatening traumatic brain injuries. The type of injury sustained from a fall is determined by several factors, including the height of the fall, the surface on which the person fell, and the person's body position at the time of the fall.

 Falls are a common and serious issue for people with Parkinson's disease because they can result in injury, decreased mobility, and a lower quality of life. Individuals with Parkinson's disease are more likely to fall as a result of factors such as muscle stiffness, impaired balance, and slower reaction time. Several techniques can be used to prevent falls in people with Parkinson's disease, including: 

  • walking, tai chi, or yoga on a regular basis can help improve balance and reduce the risk of falling. 

  • Medication management entails reviewing medications with a doctor to ensure that they are not causing balance issues or increasing the risk of falling. 

  • Footwear: Wearing supportive, well-fitting shoes can help improve balance and reduce the risk of falling. Making changes to the home environment, such as removing tripping hazards and installing grab bars, can help reduce the risk of falling.

  • Assistive devices, such as canes or walkers, can help improve balance and reduce the risk of falling. 

  •  Making changes to the home environment, such as removing tripping hazards and installing grab bars, can help reduce the risk of falling. 

  • Regular eye exams are recommended to ensure good vision and to correct any vision problems that may contribute to falls. 

  • Vitamin D supplementation: Because low vitamin D levels have been linked to an increased risk of falling, taking vitamin D supplements may help reduce this risk. 

  • Participating in fall prevention programs, such as physical therapy or balance training, can help reduce the risk of falling.

Falls are a common and serious issue for the elderly and nursing home residents, as they can result in injury, decreased mobility, and a lower quality of life. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related death in the elderly, as well as a major cause of hospitalization and loss of independence. Falls among the elderly and nursing home residents are caused by a variety of factors, including:

  •  Impaired balance and mobility: As people age, their balance and mobility may deteriorate, raising their risk of falling.

  • Chronic medical conditions, such as Parkinson's disease, arthritis, and vision problems, can increase the risk of falling.

  • Medications: sedatives and blood pressure medications, for example, can increase the risk of falling.

  •  Environmental hazards, such as uneven flooring or cluttered spaces in the home or nursing home, can increase the risk of falls. 

 It is important to remember that falls can be avoided and that taking steps to reduce the risk can lead to improved health and quality of life for elderly people and nursing home residents. It is critical to remember that falls can be avoided and that taking steps to reduce the risk can lead to improved health and quality of life.

Imaging

 X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans are common imaging procedures used to diagnose falls. 

  • X-rays are used to evaluate fractures and can quickly detect bone abnormalities. 

  • CT scans provide detailed images of bone and soft tissues and are used to diagnose fractures, dislocations, and internal injuries.

  • MRI scans are used to evaluate soft tissues and the brain, and they are especially useful in cases of suspected head injuries. 

Treatment for falls and related injuries will vary depending on the severity of the injury and the body part affected.

  •  Minor injuries, such as bruises or cuts, may be treated with ice, elevation of the affected limb, and pain management.

  • For more serious injuries, such as fractures, treatment may include immobilization with a cast or surgery to repair the broken bones. 

  • In the case of traumatic brain injury, treatment may include symptom management medication, physical and occupational therapy, and, in severe cases, surgery. 

Individuals who have sustained a fall should seek medical attention as soon as possible to ensure a proper diagnosis and treatment.


References
Catherine, Cordelia, Rose, Maria, & Sotirios. (2005). Movement Disorders 20 no.
Frances, & Terry. (2010). Clinics in geriatric medicine 26 no.
Amy, & Donise. (2014). Journal of Nursing Care Quality 29 no.
J., M., Y., & S. (7636). Bmj 336 no.
Melinda, M., & A. (2000). British journal of sports medicine 34 no.
Ann, Susan, Mark, Helen, & Elizabeth. (1991). American journal of epidemiology 133 no.
Neville, Lois, Jeane, & Greg. (1998). The Journals of Gerontology Series A Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences 53 no.
Mary. (1991). Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 39 no.
Tammy, & Terry. (2013). Circumstances of falls and fallsrelated injuries in a cohort of older patients following hospital discharge.

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