Fall

Fall is a sudden, unintentional change in position causing an individual to land at a lower level, on an object, the floor, or the ground, other than as a consequence of sudden onset of paralysis, epileptic seizure, or overwhelming external force.

Causes

Falls can be caused by a variety of factors, including physical and mental health conditions, environmental hazards, and certain types of medications. Some common causes of falls include:

• Balance problems
• Vision problems
• Muscle weakness
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Certain medications

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase an individual's risk of falling. These include:

• Age: Older adults are more likely to fall.
• Previous falls: Individuals who have fallen once are more likely to fall again.
• Chronic conditions: Conditions such as arthritis, stroke, and Parkinson's disease can increase the risk of falls.
• Certain medications: Some medications can cause dizziness or confusion, increasing the risk of falls.

Prevention

There are several strategies that can help prevent falls, including:

• Regular exercise: Exercise can improve strength, balance, and coordination.
• Vision checks: Regular eye exams can ensure that vision problems do not contribute to falls.
• Medication review: Regular review of medications can help identify those that may increase the risk of falls.
• Home safety: Removing hazards in the home can reduce the risk of falls.

Treatment

Treatment for falls depends on the severity of the fall and any injuries that have occurred. Treatment may include:

• Medical care: This may include treatment for any injuries caused by the fall, such as fractures or head injuries.
• Physical therapy: This can help improve strength and balance.
• Medication review: This can help identify and adjust medications that may have contributed to the fall.

See Also

• Elderly care
• Physical therapy
• Vision problems
• Balance problems

Fall Resources
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