Are you worried about falls as you get older? Let's talk about 'Fall Risk Assessment'!

Did you know that among our dear seniors, sometimes even a small fall can lead to a serious condition. Just think, about one in five falls can cause something like a broken bone or a head injury. Many people think that falling is normal as we get older and that it cannot be prevented. But don't think so. In most cases, we can prevent these falls. That's why the ' Fall Risk Assessment' that we are going to talk about today is important. This will help doctors find out what risk factors you have for falling and give you advice that will help you.

What is a 'Fall Risk Assessment'?

Simply put, this is a way for doctors to find out how likely you are to fall and what factors contribute to it. Think of it like checking the tires and brakes of a car before driving. This is similar to this, looking at many things like our body balance , the way we walk, the medications we take, and then saying, “Oh, these things might make you more likely to fall.” Then, they give you advice on what you can do to reduce that risk.

Why is this test important to you?

Some people slow down or try to be very careful because they're afraid of falling. Even if it's done with good intentions, sometimes that alone can be enough.

Here's why 'fall risk screening' is important:

• You can reduce your risk of falling or getting injured . When you know exactly what things affect you, it's easier to protect yourself from them, right?
• You can reduce your own risk factors. Not everyone's risk is the same. For one person, it may be due to medication, for another, it may be due to poor vision. This test will help you identify your own problems.
• You can move around freely and maximize your ability to be active. How great would it be if you could work without fear of falling?
• It is a great help to live a healthy, independent life. Everyone likes to do their own thing without bothering anyone.

Think of it this way, it's like knowing the rules of the road to avoid accidents when you're on the road. When you're aware of your body and your surroundings, you can avoid accidents.

Who should get this test done? How often?

It's generally a good idea for all adults age 65 and older to have a baseline fall risk screening. Your doctor may ask you questions like these:

• Do you feel unsteady or wobbly when you stand or walk?
• Have you fallen within the past year?
• Are you afraid of falling?

If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, your doctor may recommend further investigation.

Generally, various health organizations recommend that you get a fall risk screening at least once a year . However, in some cases, your doctor may feel that you need to get tested more often. This will depend on your health condition.

What are the factors that increase the risk of falling?

There can be many reasons for falling. Let's break them down into two parts.

Causes that come from within the body (physical conditions)

• Aging: As we age, our bodies change. Muscles become weaker and our balance decreases.
• Balance Problems: Inability to maintain balance while standing or walking.
• Gait disorders: Some people may have changes in the way they walk and their gait. This can also be a cause of falls.
• Mild cognitive impairment: Sometimes, memory loss and attention loss can occur.
• Heart palpitations : A sudden feeling of your chest pounding.
• Orthostatic hypotension : Some people feel dizzy and their eyes go blue when they stand up suddenly from a sitting position , right? That's what it is.
• Vision problems : When you can't see clearly, you're more likely to trip or bump into something.

The things we do and their impact on the environment

• Home hazards: Think of things like things left lying around on the floor, dark spots, slippery carpets, and no grab bars in the bathroom. We call these ``Home hazards''.
• Medications that cause dizziness, drowsiness, and body aches: There are some types of medications, for example, antidepressants , antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines, which can cause these side effects .
• Vitamin D deficiency: If the body does not get enough vitamin D, there is a high risk of muscle weakness and fractures.
• If you have fallen before: Someone who has fallen once has a small chance of falling again.
• Lack of physical activity: Sitting in one place without exercise reduces body strength and balance.

What happens during this 'fall risk screening'?

This test usually involves several steps. Don't worry, these are things that are done to help you.

What you will be asked and how to check your medication

Your doctor may do things like:

• If you've fallen before, they'll ask you about it in detail. How you fell, what happened after you fell, whether you took any medication, etc. It's like a detective trying to figure out the cause.
• They ask about your daily activities and your ability to perform tasks. For example, whether you can bathe, dress, and cook on your own.
• They look at every medication you take. They look for any that increase the risk of falling, as some medications can increase the risk of falling.

Tests performed and subsequent advice given

The doctor may also do the following:

• Your blood pressure will be checked , especially if there is a difference when you stand up from sitting. Your heart rate will also be checked.
• You will be given several physical tests. These will measure things like your balance and strength.
• You may be asked to do a blood test to check your vitamin levels , or a DEXA scan to check your bone strength. This DEXA scan can also check for bone thinning diseases like osteoporosis .
• You may also be referred to an occupational therapist. They can help you identify potential hazards in your home and help you avoid them.

What kind of tests are used for this?

Doctors use simple tests like these to check your balance, strength, and gait:

• 30-Second Chair Stand Test: In this test, you are asked to sit in a chair, cross your arms across your chest (so that you cannot use your arms for support). Then, they count how many times you can stand up and sit down again within 30 seconds.
• Four Stage Balance Test: In this test, you are asked to hold four different positions for 10 seconds each. These positions become progressively more difficult, with the final one being standing on one leg.
• Timed Up & Go (TUG) test: This involves you sitting in a chair with arms. You then get up, walk about 10 feet at your normal pace, and then sit back down in the chair. If it takes you 12 seconds or more to do this, you may be at high risk of falling.
• Cognitive test: Sometimes the doctor may also do a short test to check your thinking skills and memory.

Don't worry, these tests are very simple and painless. They are only done to help you.

What results can you expect after the test?

Once you have completed all these tests, the doctor will tell you whether you have a low or high risk of falling.

Even if the risk is low, your doctor may give you some tips to help prevent falls. It's always better to be safe than sorry.

What can you do to reduce the risk of falling? (General advice)

Your doctor may advise you to:

• When you get up from a sitting position, stand up a little. This can help reduce dizziness.
• Use an assistive device that suits you. For example, a cane that is appropriate for your height.
• Install grab bars in the bathroom. This will help a lot to prevent slips and falls.
• If there are medications that increase the risk of falls, your doctor may recommend changing them or reducing the dosage . (This is something you should only do after talking to your doctor!)
• If you have a vitamin D deficiency, take vitamin D supplements.
• Participate in group exercise classes that are suitable for adults. For example, exercises like ``Tai Chi`` are great for developing balance.

Your doctor may also recommend that you seek help from other health professionals to keep you as healthy as possible:

• Ophthalmologist: If you have vision problems or conditions like cataracts, get them treated.
• Physical therapist: Build body strength and improve balance.
• Occupational therapist: Make your home environment safe. For example, removing slippery carpets and installing handrails.

Falls can be a serious problem for any adult. So, this 'fall risk assessment' is the best way to identify your risk factors and take steps to address them. Reducing your risk of falls and protecting yourself from injury can go a long way toward helping you live a healthier, happier, and more independent life. It may just take a few simple changes. Like wearing the right shoes, starting a vitamin regimen, or working with a physical therapist. If you're 65 or older, be sure to talk to your doctor about getting a fall risk assessment.

Summary and Take-Home Message

Okay, so let's remind you of the most important things we talked about today:

• Falls are not uncommon as we age, and they can often be prevented.
• A 'Fall Risk Assessment' is an important tool that helps you identify and reduce your risk of falling.
• It is a good idea for everyone over the age of 65 to talk to their doctor about this at least once a year.
• Many things can affect falls, including the home environment, medications used, balance, and vision.
• Don't worry, these tests are simple, and there are many things you can do to reduce your risk of falls.
• People like your doctor, physical therapist, and occupational therapist can help you with this.

The most important thing is to not be afraid of this, but to take action. Talk to your doctor. Your safety is in your hands!