Discuss the cause of falls and why older people are more at risk

Question 1

What pathologies have been identified to underly mechanical/recurrent falls? (3)

Answer 1

• cerebrovascular disease
• parkinson’s disease
• osteoarthritis

Question 2

Why are older patients at a higher risk of syncopal episodes?

Answer 2

• pathological changes due to diseases of old age can cause dizziness/fainting (hypotension, parkinsons)
• lack of macronutrients
• dehydration

Question 3

What kind of falls do patients who are frail, with multiple medical conditions and chronic diseases, usually present with?

Answer 3

mechanical/recurrent falls

Question 4

Why can acute illnesses precipitate falls in older people?

Answer 4

reduced reserves in older people’s neurological function means that they are less likely to maintain their balance when challenged by an acute illness

Question 5

What acute illnesses commonly underly falls in the elderly? (4)

Answer 5

1. infection
2. stroke
3. metabolic disturbance
4. heart failure