Fall Prevention In The Elderly Research Paper

Overview of Fall Prevention in the Elderly
Nur/440
June 30, 2014
Overview of Fall Prevention in the Elderly Elderly people are a vulnerable population for many reasons. Characteristics of a vulnerable population include being susceptible to or at risk for health problems (de Chesnay & Anderson, 2012, p. 4). One thing that elders are susceptible to is being prone to a fall. Falls can result in a variety of injuries from fractures to chronic pain to reduced quality of life and increased morbidity (Karlsson, Magnusson, von Schewelov, & Rosengren, 2013). Many risk factors contribute increased likelihood of falls. Change in routine or environment, inappropriate footwear, and other chronic health conditions contribute to a higher risk of
They lead to injuries from bruises to broken bones. However, in the elderly, the risks for injury and morbidity associated with falls are increased. Falls are the leading cause of death by unintentional injury in older adults (“Healthy People 2020, n.d.). Falls contributed to 23% of injury-related deaths in those over 65, 34% in those over 85 years of age (Karlsson, Magnusson, von Schewelov, & Rosengren, 2013). In an effort to raise awareness of these issues, Healthy People 2020 included the goals of improving the health, function, and quality of life of older adults and reducing the rate of visits to emergency departments that stem from falls (“Healthy People 2020, n.d.). In order to meet these goals and promote quality of life, nurses must understand the hazards of falls and work to educate their patients and colleagues in prevention and reduction of
Prevention begins with knowing the risks. Elderly residents have reduced safety awareness and gait instability ("Mayo Clinic", 1998-2014). They are typically unaware of these safety reductions and need those around them to fill this gap. Nurses also must be alert for signs of cognitive impairment. When a resident or elderly person is forgetful, they may not recall how to assist themselves. They can forget their walkers or other assistive devices further making them prone to falls. They may also have sensory impairments such as poor eyesight and diminished hearing ("Mayo Clinic", 1998-2014). Nurses must assist the elderly resident by keeping walkways clear and maintaining a safe and consistent environment. Monitoring medication regimen for certain drugs that increase falls risk is another way nurses can meet these goals. Antihypertensive drugs, diuretics, stool softeners, and benzodiazepines all increase the chances of a fall and are common medications for elderly in long term care settings (Karlsson, Magnusson, von Schewelov, & Rosengren, 2013). Recognizing these concerns promote the importance of the nurse’s role in the meeting needs and improving quality of life for the