Preventing Falls in Older People with Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, also called porous bone, is a disease that can cause bones to become weak and fragile making them prone to breaks or fractures. Many elderly people have osteoporosis. In the United States alone, about 10 million individuals are living with the condition, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS).

People with osteoporosis are at an increased risk of fracturing a bone due to falls. Although falls may be due to factors such as impaired vision, balance problems, certain conditions and medications like antidepressants and sedatives, this topic focuses on falls due to environmental factors, both indoors and outdoors.

According to the NIAMS web site, more than 1.5 million fractures are related to osteoporosis annually in the United States. Of the total annual osteoporosis-related fractures, about 300,000 are hip fractures, 700,000 are fractures of the spine, 250,000 wrist fractures, and about 300,000 fractures in other sites of the body.

The NIAMS reports that one in two women and one out of every four men 50 years old and above will have osteoporosis- related fracture in their lifetime.

Truly, preventing falls is a special concern for people with osteoporosis. Some environmental factor-related falls can be prevented.

Outdoors, elderly people with osteoporosis can use assistive devices such as a cane or a walker to maintain stability. Wearing rubber-soled shoes may also help. Avoid walking on slippery sidewalks by walking on grass. When you go outdoors, you bring with you salt that you can sprinkle on slippery sidewalks. Walk areas should be clear of ice or snow during winter. There should be adequate lighting in doorways or walkways that lead to doors.

There are many things you can do to prevent falls in the home-setting. Avoiding walking indoors in socks or stockings can help. Try to keep the floors free of clutters to avoid tripping on them. Floor surfaces should not be slippery or highly polished or avoid using wax. When rugs are installed, make sure that they are secured in place by nonskid tape or skid-proof backing.

People who live with an elderly with osteoporosis should make sure that rooms and stairwells are well lit and free of clutters. Throw rugs should be avoided in living room or bedrooms. Hand rails should be installed in stairwells and grab bars in bathrooms. Installing rubber bath mat in shower or bath tub may prevent falls in the bathroom.

By applying these simple tips on how to avoid falls when you have osteoporosis, you can prevent the occurrence of fractures. Osteoporotic people should talk to their health care providers if they have other health problems or report any physical changes in their balance or gait.

Sources:
Osteoporosis Overview. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases.
Falls and Fractures. National Institute on Aging