What are the risk factors for falls?
Risk factors in older adults can be a combination of several factors rather than just one single event. The more risk factors involved, the more likely one is to falling. Internal risk factors include, but are not limited to, poor eyesight, hearing loss, lack of balance, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, depression, respiratory and cardiovascular disease, weakness and poor grip strength, rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, and foot disorders. External risk factors include medications, hazards in the home such as stairs, throw rugs, loose cords, poor lighting, poorly fit shoes, insufficient lighting and hazards outside the home like slippery or icy roads, fallen leaves and uneven pavement.
