What are the potential causes of falling? Where do most elderly falls happen? Does aging make people more at risk? The physical and mental after-effects of a fall can extend far beyond the obvious physical harm. If you or an elderly loved one are concerned about the potential consequences of a fall, keep reading.
Preventing Falls
In Singapore, roughly one-third of elderly persons 60 and older have fallen more than once. Falls can be risky for the elderly because they can cause hip fractures, especially in women, who have an 18% lifetime risk of developing one. For men, this risk is roughly 6%.
People with osteoporosis are at a greater risk of fractures. Loss of function and mobility is common after a hip fracture, and research shows mortality rates are proven to rise in the year following a fracture.
Older People Having Accidents at Home
Did you know that the elderly are more likely to fall at home than anywhere else? The bedroom and the living room account for a disproportionate number of these accidents. In addition to issues with vision and health, environmental dangers like slippery floors or unsecured cords in the home greatly enhance the risk of falls for the elderly.
The elderly are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of falling, which can include broken bones, extended hospital stays, and a decline in feelings of worth and confidence. Falls and the injuries they produce, such as hip fractures and head trauma, are serious public health concerns that must not be ignored because of the wide range of negative outcomes they can bring. Some of the potential consequences of falling are listed below.
Resulting effects on the body
- Breaks or fractures, most commonly in the arm or hip
- A feeling of distress
- Illnesses and health concerns caused by inactivity
- Lack of, or difficulty with, autonomous movement, especially over extended periods of time
- Unsteady walk
Social Effects
- Loss of autonomy
- Variations in Regular Activity
- Hospitalization is quite more expensive
- Long-term hospitalization might cause a loss of social connections
- Lowered standard of living
Resulting psychological effects
- High frustration at being unable to perform routine tasks on their own
- Aversion to further falls
- Traumatic stress from doubt and worry following a fall-related injury
- Loss of confidence caused by needing a cane or other mobility aid
- Loss of pride in oneself as a result of being unable to care for oneself
Summary:
- Fractures and disability are the physical repercussions of fall
- Negative societal effects include higher costs and regular disruptions
- Stress from not knowing what would happen next and being unable to provide for oneself are two psychological fallouts
Protect Your Loved Ones
To make sure they are sufficiently covered and protected, make sure that they have enough protection to get through tough times like these. It could be wise to assist them in adding to their retirement fund and to augment their CPF with insurance.
Many different types of insurance and insurance policies, such as private annuity plans, endowment plans, protection plans like Integrated Shield Plans, and accident policies, can guarantee the financial protection of your loved ones, especially the elderly ones.