A public health remedy for reducing falls by the elderly
Researchers may have found a public health solution to a health hazard faced by the elderly: falling and breaking bones.
A new study showed a measurable impact when clinicians were urged to assess patients' risk of falls and to offer them advice. They were asked to advise on preventive alternatives such as strength exercises, vision adjustment, blood pressure treatment and medication reduction.
The result? An 11 percent drop in the rate of serious falls by the elderly who received the preventative counseling. That 11 percent meant 1,800 fewer emergency visits, saving an estimated $21 million in health costs, the researchers said.
Other research has estimated that 6 percent of hospitalization and 10 percent of emergency visits are attributable to falls among those aged 65 and over. We must remind ourselves of the value of simple, non-drug preventive measures to avoid falls and fractures. Less than an hour a week of strength exercise, an updated eyeglass prescription and minimizing use of sedating medications can all pay huge dividends.
