Falls & Balance Flashcards

1
Q

Over what age is the prevalence of falls over 50%? Are falls more common in residential aged care facilities or community living?

A

From 85yo.

Residential aged care.

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2
Q

How common is a minor injury, a serious injury and a fracture after a fall? How common is fear of falling among fallers?

A

Minor: 50%. Serious: 10-15%. Fracture: 5%.
Fear: 50%.

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3
Q

What are the 3 classes of risk factors for falls?

A

Intrinsic, extrinsic and behavioural.

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4
Q

Intrinsic risk factors for falls - name at least 3.

A

Balance impairment, muscle weakness, vision impairment, postural hypotension. (Drugs can affect these)

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5
Q

Extrinsic risk factors for falls - name at least 3.

A

Gait aids, uneven/slippery surfaces, footwear, stairs and rails, poor lighting, clutter. Medications (esp more than 4)

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6
Q

What 3 sensory systems are involved in obtaining information about body position for balance?

A

Visual system, vestibular system and somatosensory system (touch, pressure, proprioception)

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7
Q

What are tests of balance? Which are static and which dynamic?

A

Static: Romberg’s test, Standing on heels/toes, Dynamic: Timed Up & Go, Sternal push/Shoulder tug, functional reach

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8
Q

What scale do physiotherapists use to assess balance? How many components and what is the total score?

A

Berg Balance Scale. 14 tests with total score of 56.

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9
Q

What are some extra questions to ask in the context of a fall history?

A

Witnesses, impact on lifestyle and fear of falling, ability to get up, rule out syncope - remember falling?

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10
Q

Apart from balance tests, what physical examinations are common for a faller?

A

Musculoskeletal for joints, gait assessment, vision, postural BP, footwear assessment, neurological - central and peripheral.

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11
Q

What areas may be useful to address intrinsic factors for a faller? What professionals are usually involved?

A

Medical interventions for vision, balance, hypotension, foot/joint conditions, manage syncope. Exercise programs.
Doctor and physio.

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12
Q

What are 3 areas that may be useful to address extrinsic factors for a faller? Which professionals may be involved?

A

Foot care and footware. Gait aids. Home hazard assessment.

Podiatry, OT and physio.

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13
Q

Which professionals may address behavioural factors in falls?
Who may be useful for severe fear of falling?

A

ALL health professionals can advise about appropriate behaviour.
Clinical psychology may be useful for fear.

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14
Q

What are 5 singlular interventions which may reduce the risk of having a fall?

A

Balance training (eg. Tai chi); Cataract surgery; Home hazard assessment; Vitamin D +/- Ca; Reduce psychotropic medications (eg. Benzos)

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15
Q

What are 3 interventions which may be useful to reduce the risk of injury in fallers?

A

Osteoporosis assessment/treatment. Strength & Balance training.
Hip protectors.

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