Falls and mobility in older age: every step counts Stürze und Mobilität im Alter
Freiberger E, Lindemann U (2021)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2021
Journal
Book Volume: 64
Pages Range: 474-485
Journal Issue: 3
Abstract
In this article, the complex interaction between falls and fall-related injuries and their risk factors and influence on other aspects in older age are shown. With a falls incident rate of 30–50 % of older persons, falls are threatening healthy aging and independency. The negative effect of falls and fall-related injuries on quality of life and social participation of older persons indicate the complexity of a fall incident. Falls not only have physical, but also behavioural effects. If activities of daily living are avoided due to fear of falling, this in turn causes a reduction of physical function and inactivity and sedentariness increases. With regard to the most important functional risk factors, powerful interventions include a multi-component training consisting of balance and strength exercises and a walking component. Wheeled walkers can be helpful to improve gait instability. With regard to the increasing number of older persons, their individual burden and the economic costs, action is necessary. Falls and fall-related injuries can be considerably reduced by appropriate preventive interventions. Thus, mobility, quality of life and social participation can be improved or saved. These are meaningful components of»healthy aging«.
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Germany (DE)How to cite
APA:
Freiberger, E., & Lindemann, U. (2021). Falls and mobility in older age: every step counts Stürze und Mobilität im Alter. Tägliche Praxis, 64(3), 474-485.
MLA:
Freiberger, Ellen, and Ulrich Lindemann. "Falls and mobility in older age: every step counts Stürze und Mobilität im Alter." Tägliche Praxis 64.3 (2021): 474-485.
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