Other factors can include vision and hearing changes, co-occurring conditions likedepression, and medication use.
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What Is Fear of Falling?
An incident may trigger this emotion, but many people (especially older adults) live with this phobia.
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Most falls do not cause serious injury.
Still, such trips or slips can limit older people if they avoid healthy activities they can still do.
you could also fall from self-initiated motions, such as reaching for an item.
In response, you will usually adjust your posture and the way you walk.
A 2020 study showed that when individuals are constantly afraid of falling, thecentral nervous systemmakes them more cautious.
However, this extra caution may not be beneficial, as it may ultimately increase their risk of falling.
Their anxiety may increase if they repeatedly face threats to their balance.
Aging and the onset of neurological diseases affect how people handle perceived or real threats.
With fear of falling, this can mean people are less active.
Even tasks like grocery shopping become difficult and are associated with a fear of falling.
Risk Factors
Many physical and environmental conditions can cause people to worry excessively about falling.
They can equip with you with techniques for changing your behavior and theself-confidenceto use them.
It wasn’t clear if it reduced falls, though.
Other options include:
Physical therapyis designed to restore your confidence and mobility.
Coping
There are ways to reduce your fear and risk of falls.
Ask your healthcare provider if any of the following treatments would work for you.
Exercise
Exercise can help you improve your strength, coordination, stability, and self-confidence.
Supplements
Vitamin D is widelyused to strengthen bones.
Consistency is key, as nondaily doses seem to increase fall rates, although not significantly.
Correct Vision
Impaired vision can double your risk of falling.
Have your eyes examined at least once per year, and revamp your prescription as needed.
These include products that help you remain stable and safe while performing daily tasks.
Fear of falling can hinder you from living an active, independent lifestyle.
It also works against you by increasing your chances of falling.
One key to aging safely is to remain as active as possible.
Your healthcare provider can objectively assess your risk of falling and recommend ways to prevent falls, if needed.
If you fall, call your healthcare provider right away.
You might need urgent or emergency care to rule out any brain injury or broken bones.
If you’re feeling unbalanced or falling often, let your healthcare provider know.
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