Maintaining some balance
Serious injury and even death await those heading for a fall
- Published: 28/10/2010 at 09:26 AM
- Newspaper section: Mylife
A fall can happen to anyone at anytime. For some, a fall may cause only bruising or some minor injuries, while some might break their arms or legs. However, if it happens to the elderly, the consequences of a fall can be much more devastating.
Prof Areerat Suputtitada, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, said falls by the elderly are a serious problem with high morbidity and mortality rates. It is estimated that of those who are 65 and older and who are living in their own homes, nearly 1/3 will have a fall each year.
"Of those who fall, 1 in 40 will be hospitalised. Of those who are hospitalised, only half will be alive at the end of the year. Besides, those who have had one fall face increased risk from further falls," said the doctor.
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About the author
- Writer: Anjira Assavanonda
- Position: Reporter
