Falls among individuals over 65 years old are a serious issue and can have far-reaching consequences. Approximately 30% of people over 65 experience at least one fall per year, and the risk of repeated falls increases significantly after the first fall (1).
Statistics on falls
According to a study published in Ugeskrift for Læger (1), 33% of emergency room visits among the elderly were related to falls. Nearly one-third of these falls resulted in fractures. Hip fractures were the most severe and accounted for 30% of the patients who sustained fractures. Among patients over 80 years old, 39% were admitted following a fall (2).
Consequences of falls
The consequences of falls can be severe. For example, falls often result in fractures, which can lead to reduced mobility, increased dependency on assistance, and, in the worst cases, higher mortality. Studies have shown that 19% of patients with a hip fracture die within six months after the fall (2).
It is therefore important to keep your body healthy by maintaining strong muscles and bones, to avoid developing osteoporosis later on. Knowing your body composition—specifically the distribution of fat tissue, muscle mass, and bone density—is crucial.
Prevention of falls
Preventing falls is essential for reducing these risks. Effective measures include:
- Risk screening: This involves a comprehensive assessment of risk factors such as medications, vision problems, muscle strength, and balance.
- Strength and balance training: Individually tailored exercise programs can significantly reduce the risk of falls.
- Modification of the surroundings: Securing the home against hazards like loose rugs and poor lighting can prevent many falls.
- Medication adjustment: Reducing or adjusting medications—especially psychotropic drugs—can decrease the risk of falls (3).
Dexa scanning
Dexa scanning (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is a technology that uses a small amount of X-ray radiation to measure, among other things, bone density and thus assess the risk of osteoporosis—a key factor in many fall-related fractures. Regular Dexa scans can help identify individuals at high risk, allowing for timely preventive treatment (1).
Dexa scanning can also be used as a tool to monitor the body’s development and how muscle mass is maintained through training. In other words, the scan can be used to ensure the quality of planned training routines, making the time spent on exercise more effective.
