Alarm signal for seniors: falls and osteoporosis endanger life!

Alarm signal for seniors: falls and osteoporosis endanger life!

falls in older people are a serious problem and often associated with considerable health consequences. This is particularly often affected by people suffering from osteoporosis, an illness that is characterized by low bone mass and increased fragility. According to Krone , the dangers of fractures and vertebral baking burglaries are significantly increased even with minor injuries and stress. The statistics speaks for itself: The 6-month mortality after a hip fracture is 21%with over 65-year-olds.

A terrifying phenomenon is also shown in the fall statistics: Every third over 65 years falls annually, while it is even every second in the over 85-year-olds, as jameda . In addition, 60 to 70% of the fall victims suffer another fall within one year. With every twentieth fall, there is a broken bone and even a thigh neck fracture for every hundredths. So the dangers are real and the consequences of it are dramatic.

risk factors for falls

The risk factors for osteoporosis and falls are far -reaching and can have both intrinsic and extrinsic causes. The intrinsic factors include movement restrictions, psychological changes and visual disturbances. Extrinsic factors are often inadequate lighting, stumbling blocks or slippery surfaces. These risks increase the likelihood of serious injuries to falls, especially in older people who are often less flexible and stable.

In addition, people over the age of 70 should consider basic diagnosis regarding osteoporosis. Other risk factors include hereditary stress, intolerance of dairy products, reduced sporting activity, inadequate UV lighting and taking certain medication. Strengths of muscles and coordination as well as equilibrium training can make a decisive contribution to fall prevention and should be integrated into every health program for older people.

preventive measures

To effectively reduce the risk of falling, simple self -tests are helpful. Two tests that are recommended are the tandem stand test and the Chair Rise test. In the tandem-stand test, a person should try to stand on one foot for ten seconds or walk over a two-meter-long line without breaking off. In the Chair Rise test, the test person is asked to get up from an armchair five times in 10 seconds with crossed arms in front of the chest without supporting yourself. Those who do not exist are considered to be particularly at risk of falling and should urgently consider countermeasures.

The consequences of falls are not only physical in nature: the fear of a new fall can significantly impair self -confidence and lead to a retreat from social life. This increases muscle breakdown and can lead to further deterioration in general health. Less than half of those affected return to their previous life, and 20% remain in need of long -term care after they have suffered a hip break.