Into makes recommendations to prevent falls in the elderly

The National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedics (Into), this Saturday (24), the date that commemorates the World Day for the Prevention of Falls, warns of the importance of adopting preventive attitudes that contribute to avoid traumas and fractures caused by this type of accident. According to the Institute’s orthopedist, Tito Rocha, attention should be redoubled with the elderly, who are even more subject to falls, indoors and on the street. According to the expert, two factors are responsible for the increase in these occurrences with advancing age. Among the elderly over 80 years old, sarcopenia and osteoporosis are the main ones. “The muscle fragility caused by sarcopenia causes these elderly people to fall more and, due to the bone fragility caused by osteoporosis, when they fall, the bone fractures”, explains Rocha. In addition to conditions associated with loss of muscle mass, which compromise strength and balance, the chances of falls in this age group are also related to other risk factors, such as vision disorders and the presence of degenerative diseases. The expert also lists that it is indoors that most of these accidents happen. Slippery floors, rugs, objects left on the floor, and low lighting can all result in falls. He also points out that it is necessary to be aware of the obstacles that the elderly may face on the street: uneven sidewalks, holes and even difficulties in accessing public transport steps. Five regions of the human body are most affected by falls: the femur, the pelvis, the lumbar spine, the wrist and the shoulder. Tito Rocha explains that most femur fractures require surgical treatment, as this is a load-bearing bone. “Surgery is fundamental for the patient to be able to rehabilitate himself as quickly as possible and return to his previous condition”. Prevention Simple measures can help prevent falls inside and outside the home, such as removing rugs, installing safety bars in bathrooms and using non-slip shoes. Rocha also warns of the importance of regular physical activity. “Exercise improves balance and strength, in addition to being a cheap type of prevention, without contraindications and efficient”, evaluates the specialist.

Agência Brasil