Screening for Risk of Falls in the Elderly

It is well documented that fear of falling leads to decreased activity level, social isolation and restricted movement. A hip fracture often leads to disability, nursing home placement and premature death. Falls resulting in injury have a large financial impact on society. Over $20 billion was spent on treating injuries related to falls in 1994 for those over age 65. Annual Medicare costs associated with treating hip fractures were $2.9 billion and projected to reach $16.9 billion by 2040.

A recent study, in the Issues on Aging (APTA section on geriatrics magazine), has found that screening for risk of falls in a community setting is a feasible and practical way of identifying elderly at risk for falls. Two tests, the Functional Reach Test and Gait Speed Measurement were the assessment tools used. These tests are easy to administer and take very little time by the participant. Screening tools for disease such as blood pressure readings, cholesterol checks and bone density scans are routinely offered at health fairs. It only makes sense to add these two tests for prevention of falls not only to decrease the personal toll but also the financial social impact. Seek our an health fair or local physical therapist and get your balance tested. In the meantime here is a list on what you can do to help prevent a fall.