To prevent the risk of falls, attention must be paid to reducing risk factors.
Intrinsic risk factors
- Balance disorders
- Functional and cognitive limitations
- Reduced hearing and visual performance
- Weak muscles (insb. leg muscles)
- Low grip strength
- General weakness
Extrinsic risk factors
- Drug side effects (including benzodiazepines).
- Polypharmacy (> 4 prescribed medications).
- Environmental conditions (e.g., adverse weather).
- Danger points in the house (see below).
Measures for fall prophylaxis (fall prevention)
The following measures to fall prophylaxis can be useful:
- Adaptation of visual / hearing aids
- Attendance of courses for strengthening/posture training
- Recommend sturdy footwear
- Gait training including balance training
- Avoid overhead work
- Home visits to adjust environment – the following hazardous areas should be checked/mitigated:
- Lighting (optimal?)
- Thick carpets and loose carpet runners as well as other tripping hazards (such as objects lying around; cables running freely; shoes, clothing, toys, etc.); if necessary, secure carpets with double-sided tape
- Waxed floor
- Make stairs and other slippery surfaces slip-resistant with carpet tiles
- Mark the first and last step of the stairs
- Wobbly railings
- With ladders pay attention to quality defects
- The following measures should be taken in the bathroom area:
- Immediately remove puddles of water in the bathroom
- Apply self-adhesive anti-slip tapes to tiles and in bathtubs/showers
- Attach grab bars to bathtub and shower
- Attach a seat in the shower for frequent dizzy spells
- Grab bars or handrails on the walls can provide additional safety.
- If a rollator or wheelchair is used in the apartment, sufficient space should be created for it.
