Falls are a major cause of both disability and death in senior citizens. They occur frequently. More than one third of people over age 65 have at least one fall each year. After a fall, elderly patients frequently voluntarily restrict their activity because they fear another fall. The occurrence of falls is a strong predictor of nursing home placement. Reduction in exercise leads to further weakness that, in turn, increases the risk of another fall, a vicious circle. Older patients need protection while walking after a fall to allow them to retain an adequate level of physical fitness.
Falls are a major cause of both disability and death in senior citizens. They occur frequently. More than one third of people over age 65 have at least one fall each year. After a fall, elderly patients frequently voluntarily restrict their activity because they fear another fall. The occurrence of falls is a strong predictor of nursing home placement. Reduction in exercise leads to further weakness that, in turn, increases the risk of another fall, a vicious circle. Older patients need protection while walking after a fall to allow them to retain an adequate level of physical fitness.
