Falls: Myth Vs. Reality

Myth # 1: Falling happens to other people, not to me.
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Reality: Many people think, "It won't happen to me." But the truth is 1 and 4 older adults fall every year in the US


Myth #2: Falling is something normal and happens as you get older.

Reality: Falling is not a part of aging.  Strength and balance exercises, managing your medications, having your vision checked and making your living environment safer are all steps you can take to prevent a fall.


Myth#3:  If I limited my activity, I will fall..

Reality: Some people believe that the best way to prevent falls is to stay at home and limit activity.  Not true.  Performing physical activities will actually help your stay independent, as your strength and range of motion benefit from remaining active.  Social activities are also good for your overall health.


Myth# 4: As long as I stay home, I can avoid falling..

Reality: Over half of all falls take place at home.  Inspect your home for fall risks.  Fix simple but serious hazards such as clutter, throw rugs, and poor lighting.  Make simple home modifications, such as adding grab bars in the bathroom, a second handrail on stairs, and nonslip paint on outdoor steps.


Myth # 5: Muscle strength and flexibility can't be regained.

Reality: While we do lose muscles as we age, exercise can partially restore strength and flexibility.  It's never too late to start an exercise program. If you've been of "couch potato" your whole life, becoming active now will benefit in many ways–including protection from falls.

Myth # 6: Taking medication doesn't increase my risk of falling.

Reality.  Taking any medication increased to risk of falling.  Medications affect people in many different ways and can sometimes make you dizzy or sleepy.  He careful in starting a new medication.  Dr. health care provider about potential side effects or interventions of her medications.

Myth# 7: I don't need to get my vision checked every year.

Reality: Vision is not acute risk factor for falls.  Aging is associated with some forms of visual loss that increased risk of falling's injury.  He reports vision problems are more than twice as likely to fall as those without vision impairments.  Checked at least once per year and update your eyeglasses.  For those with low vision there are programs and assistive devices that can help.  Ask an optometrist for referral.

Myth# 8: Using a walker or cane will make me more dependent.

Reality: Walking aids are very important in helping many older adults maintain or improve their mobility.  However, make sure that you use these devices safely.  Your physical therapist fit the walker or cane to you and instruct you in its safe use

Myth #9: I don't need to talk to family members or my health care provider if I'm concerned about my risk of falling.  I don't want to alarm them, and I want to keep my independence.

Reality:  Fall prevention is a team effort.  Bring up with your doctor, family, and anyone else who is in a position to help.  They want to help you maintain your mobility and reduce your risk of falling.

Myth #10:  I don't need to talk to my parent, spouse, or other older adult if I'm concerned about the risk of falling.  It will hurt their feelings, and its none of my business. 

Reality:  Let them know  about your concerns and offer support to help them maintain the highest degree of independence possible.  There are many things you can do, including removing hazards in the home, finding a fall prevention program in the community, setting up a vision examination or consulting  with Core Matrix Physical Therapy.


 
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