What are the common causes of falls in the elderly?
Dec 31, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
In general, falls in the elderly may be caused by factors such as decreased muscle strength, reduced balance ability, osteoporosis, hypoglycemia, and hypertension. With advancing age, the amount of muscle mass in the elderly gradually decreases, especially in the lower limb muscle groups. This muscle atrophy may lead to significantly reduced muscle strength, thereby decreasing the elderly's ability to support and stabilize their bodies during walking.
Generally, falls in the elderly may be caused by factors such as weakened muscle strength, decreased balance ability, osteoporosis, hypoglycemia, hypertension, and others. If the above situations occur, timely medical treatment is recommended. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Weakened Muscle Strength
With increasing age, elderly individuals gradually lose muscle mass, especially in the lower limb muscle groups. Muscle atrophy may significantly reduce muscle strength, decreasing the body's support and stability during walking and standing, thus increasing the risk of falls. Muscle strength can be improved through regular balance training.
2. Decreased Balance Ability
Declining balance ability in the elderly is mainly due to functional deterioration of the central nervous system and reduced sensitivity of sensory systems such as vision, vestibular sense, and proprioception. This decline makes it difficult for elderly individuals to adjust their posture promptly when facing uneven ground, rapid turning, or emergencies, thereby increasing the risk of falling. Gait training can help improve balance ability in daily life.
3. Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis typically occurs due to decreased bone formation and increased bone resorption. It leads to reduced bone density, thinner and more fragile bones, weakening the body's supportive capacity and increasing the likelihood of falls during walking. Treatment may include medications such as calcium carbonate D3 tablets, calcium gluconate tablets, and calcium citrate tablets, as directed by a physician. Additionally, moderate sun exposure in daily life can promote calcium absorption.
4. Hypoglycemia
Improper medication use and irregular eating habits may easily lead to hypoglycemia. Symptoms of hypoglycemia typically include dizziness, fatigue, and cold sweats, which can cause falls and may also involve tremors, blurred vision, and confusion. Treatment may involve medications such as losartan potassium hydrochlorothiazide tablets, furosemide tablets, and zinc gluconate oral solution, as directed by a physician.
5. Hypertension
Hypertension is often related to genetic factors and unhealthy lifestyle habits. Symptoms may include headache, vomiting, dizziness, and palpitations, which can lead to falls. Treatment may involve medications such as methyldopa tablets, captopril sustained-release tablets, and hydrochlorothiazide tablets, as directed by a physician.
Older adults should maintain a balanced diet, regular sleep patterns, and engage in appropriate physical exercise to enhance physical fitness. They should also pay attention to personal hygiene, reduce disease risks, and maintain bodily stability and health.
