Geriatrics

Question 1

Which patients are at risk of falls?

Answer 1

People aged 65 years and over who have had 2 or more falls in the past 12 months, or demonstrate abnormalities of gait or balance.

Question 2

What should you cover in a falls risk assessment?

e.g. what do you examine, what should you assess

Answer 2

identification of falls history

assessment of gait, balance and mobility, strength and muscle weakness

assessment of osteoporosis risk

assessment of fracture risk

assessment of perceived functional ability and fear relating to falling

assessment of visual impairment

assessment of cognitive impairment and neurological examination

assessment of urinary incontinence

assessment of home hazards

cardiovascular examination and medication review.

Question 3

What interventions are useful in reducing the risk of future falls?

Answer 3

Strength and balance training

Home hazard assessment and intervention

Vision assessment and referral

Medication review with modification/withdrawal.

Cardiac pacing (if needed)
-hypersensitive carotid sinus