Approximately 30% of elderly aged 65 years and above experience a fall every year.
Half of those who fell will fall again.
Falls can result in serious consequences such as head injuries, fractures and reduced activity due to fear of falling.
This self imposed inactivity can result in functional decline.
There are many reasons why a person falls. It may be due to muscle weakness, poor balance, poor eyesight or an underlying medical condition. The fall may also be accidental or associated with high risk activity. It is hence important to accurately assess the causes of the fall so that appropriate measures can be taken to prevent further falls. It is also important to break the cycle of fall to prevent functional decline and reduce fear of falling.
We evaluate ambulant patients, aged 65 years and above, who have a history of fall or difficulty in walking. The aim is to identify the causes of falls in the individual patient and develop a care plan to help prevent further falls.
First visit:
- The visit may take up to 2 hours.
- The patient is advised to wear loose, comfortable clothing and proper shoes.
- The patient will be seen by our nurse clinician who will obtain background information on his/her previous falls, functional status and assess the vision, hearing and fear of falling.
- A geriatrician will then perform a comprehensive clinical assessment of the patient’s falls. This will include a review of his/her medical history and medications, a physical examination and gait assessment. If necessary, radiological or blood tests may be ordered for the patient.
- He/She will also undergo an assessment by the physiotherapist who will look at his/her general fitness, balance and walking ability.
- the risk factors for falls and strategies to prevent further falls will be explained to the patient. This may include treatment of underlying medical problems, medication adjustment and physical therapy.
- A home visit by our occupational therapist may be arranged to assess patient’s home environment. Home modification may be recommended to improve patient safety at home.
Return Visit:
- The geriatrician will review the patient in six weeks time and another review at six months unless there is a need for the patient to be seen earlier.
- The physiotherapist will enroll the patient in an exercise programme. This programme will be reviewed and adjusted as the patient improves.
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