PREVENTING FALLS AMONG THE ELDERLY [ back to What's New ]
Falls account for nearly 20% of TBIs across all age groups, but make up a much higher proportion among small children and the elderly. For teens and young adults the main cause is motor vehicle accidents followed by violence. The Centers for Disease Control have issued a policy statement regarding fall prevention in the elderly. The key steps towards reducing risk are: a regular exercise program with attention to strength and balance; making the home safer (e.g., by use of non-slip tub mats and grab bars near the toilet, removing small throw rugs, better lighting, installation of handrails on stairs and wearing shoes with non-slip soles); having regular vision check ups; and having medications reviewed to weed out those which cause drowsiness or lightheadedness.