Falls in elderly

Abstract

Balance is a complex function that requires the integration of information from the sensory system and theorganization of sensory inputs. Sensory input organization is useful for planning and executing movement in order toachieve a goal requiring upright posture. However, this process was interrupted in older people leading to falls problem.Falls have been reported as a major cause of injury, morbidity and long term in rehabilitation in older people. Twofactors related to falls are intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic factors are gender, sensory impairment, muscleweakness, poor physical fitness, acute illness, vertigo, hearing impairment, balance and gait impairment, depression,anxiety and use of more than four items of medicine. Extrinsic factors or environmental factors are unfit shoes, longdress, obstacle and slippery floor. Falling caused physical injury, bone fracture and fear of falling in older people. Manyolder people had fear of falling syndrome after falling leading to further restricted movement and limited activities ofdaily living. As a result, falls have an impact on both their physical and psychological function. Therefore, fallprevention is greatly necessary for older people, for example, exercise or home rearrangement.

Key words: Fall, Elderly