Falls

Question 1

What are the causes of falls in older people?

(There are 11 causes listed on the flashcard, try to list as many as possible)`

Answer 1

• Weak muscles (lack of physical activity)
• Poor balance (stroke)
• Dizziness/light headedness (postural hypotension, BPV)
• Blackouts/LOC (AF)
• Foot problems (pain, neuropathy)
• Memory loss or confusion
• Vision/hearing problems
• Medications
• Alcohol
• Incontinence
• Environmental factors (tripping over loose carpet, ill-fitting footwear)

Question 2

Give some examples of medications which can increase the risk of falls in older people

Answer 2

• Psychotropic medication, e.g. SSRIs, antipsychotics
• Antihypertensives
• Sleeping tablets and sedatives, e.g. zopiclone, benzodiazepines
• Anticonvulsants
• Diuretics (going to toilet more often so getting up more often)