falls and prevention

Question 1

what are the intrinsic risk of falls

Answer 1

medication
cognitive impairment 
bladder and bowel conditons
low physical function 
vision 
hearing 
hydration and nutrition
medical conditions and chronic diseases 
posture, foot problems and gait 
history of falls

Question 2

what are the extrinsic risk of falls

Answer 2

footwear
poor lighting 
pets 
cables and clutter
loose rugs 
stairs, uneven pavements and potholes 
ice/slippery surface 
walking aids

Question 3

what is the falls cycle

Answer 3

fall > fear of falling > reduced activity > decreased muscle strength and balance > increased risk of falling > fall

Question 4

how is functional ability and falls risk measured

Answer 4

30-second chair stand test - rise from seating to standing with arms crossed against chest and return to seating, repeat for 30 seconds
timed up and go test (TUG) - time for a patient to rise walk 3m, turn around walk back and sit down
4-stage balance test - patient is asked to stand in 4 different positions - feet side b side, instep of food against big toe, one foot behind the other and one foot balance, patient is asked to hold for 10 seconds

Question 5

what interventions can be used to reduce falls

Answer 5

exercise, mobility and personal care, environmental adjustments
pharmaceutical review

Question 6

which exercises are the most effective for increasing balance

Answer 6

stable and able classes - increase muscle and bone strength

tai chi