Signs that parents are prone to falls

Q. My parents are getting older and seem a little wobbly. They insist they are fine, but are there signs I can look for?

A. As you age, several factors can cause poor balance and put you at risk for a fall.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in three people age 65 and older fall each year, but fewer than half tell their doctor. One in five falls causes a serious injury, such as broken bones or head injuries.

Among older adults, falls are the number-one cause of fractures, hospital admissions for trauma, loss of independence and injury deaths. Risk factors that can lead to a fall include:

Taking more than five medications

Needing a cane, walker or assistance from others

Trouble going up and down stairs

Worsening hearing or vision

Decreasing activity

Fear of falling

Dizziness

Leg weakness

If you can check off three or more of these factors, you have an increased risk of falling.

It is a common myth that balance complications and falls are a normal part of aging.

In fact, there are simple things you can do to keep yourself from falling, such as asking your doctor for safe ways to become more active and working with a physical therapist to increase your strength and balance. Also, you can ask your doctor to review your medicines to see whether any might make you dizzy or sleepy. Have your vision checked yearly and remove tripping hazards in your home, such as throw rugs.

Kristina Oplinger is senior physical therapist at Nazareth Center for Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation and Balance at Nazareth Hospital.