Risk Factors for Falls

26 February 2024

Studies have found numerous risk factors for falls in older adults aged 65 and older.

The more risk factors an individual is exposed to, the greater their risk for falls.

Identifying risk factors for fall and raising awareness to them can help reduce preventable risk factors, such as:

Difficulty maintaining balance
Vitamin D deficiency
Medications that may cause falls such as antipsychotic medications, medications for managing blood pressure and more
Sudden blood pressure drop when changing positions (postural hypotension)
Vision and hearing problems
Ankle or foot problems
Obstacles inside the home and an unsafe environment

Causes of falls among older adults

It is customary to divide risk factors into two: internal and external factors:

Advanced age.
Previous falls.
Muscle weakness.
Balance and walking difficulties.
Vision and hearing problems.
Postural hypotension.
Chronic conditions such as rheumatism, incontinence, stroke, diabetes, Parkinson's disease and dementia.
Fear of falls.

External risk factors are mostly related to unsafe home environment, for example:

Stairways without proper railings or ill-fitted stairways (such as a spiraling stairway or a stairway with stairs in changing heights).
Bathtubs and showers without safety railings.
Dim or weak lighting.
Obstacles at home that cause stumbling (such as mats, objects on the ground, furniture and so forth).
Slippery surfaces or surfaces with changing heights.

Create a safe home environment: maintain a safe home environment to prevent falls.
Physical activity: exercise and strengthen your leg muscles to prevent falls.