|
Risk of falls: evaluation, prevention and management in the elderly
Frondini C., Minardi M., Savorani G., Sciumbata A.R., Cucinotta D.
In Italy, 30-40% of the elderly fall at least once a year; half of them more than once and in 5-10% of cases falls result in severe injuries.
Fall is a multifactorial event, and multidisciplinary fall prevention programs among older people have reported positive results. Muscle mass reduction (sarcopenia), and the consequent strength reduction are important risk factors (RR=4,4); osteopenia and osteoporosis, along with malnutrition are important associated pathogenetic factors.
Our protocol of evaluation is based on: Timed up and go test, balance test (electronic stabilometry: Balance System Biodex?), hand grip strength, bone mineral density (DXA) and treadmill evaluation. Anthropometric measures including body height and weight assessed by conventional methods were as well performed. A structured interview of health, usual medications, level of physical activity and number of falls during the previous year was completed. Fear of fall was assessed by a single question. The majority of whose answering to be afraid resulted to have a higher risk of falls. Number of chronic diseases, of medication in use, the use of walking aids, frequency of falling, and malnutrition were strong risk factors, with addictive effect. The results obtained from the balance test were the most powerful in assessing the risk of falls. Balance training was carried out to reduce the risk of further falls along with a program of physical exercises that could be practiced at home. Also frail and malnourished elderly people can benefit from a carefully targeted program of evaluation and management to reduce the incidence of falls.
|
- GO BACK - |
