With the rapidly growing aging population being the world’s biggest “headache,” many aspects of healthcare need to change. Wise people have always said things that hold true, like how we all know that the elderly suffer from two main things (one being falls).
Globally, hip fractures are estimated at around 2 million annually among 146 million elderly people over 80, with this population expected to more than triple to 460 million by 2050—and that’s without including individuals aged 65+ (considered the youngest old). The problem has taken on an endemic nature, affecting almost every household. We all know someone, or someone with a relative, who suffers or has suffered from such an issue. We also know how caring for such a patient at home changes everyday life. It is enough to know that one week of bed rest can result in a 40% loss of muscle strength. Without needing advanced math, it is clear what will happen in the coming years, as research has shown that 20-30% of deaths globally are caused by such fractures.
Another huge issue is the cost. The rise in fracture frequency has a tremendous impact on healthcare systems through surgeries, medications, patient care, and rehabilitation programs. Before we discuss the benefits of exercise programs for the elderly, it’s worth mentioning that the cost of a prevention program is much lower than that of rehabilitation after a fracture. So, according to the entire medical community, prevention always wins.
A series of specific balance and strength exercises has been proven to prevent falls and improve balance and confidence. Research has shown that individuals aged 65-90 who follow a three-month exercise program under the supervision of a physiotherapist can regain 20 years of lost strength!
We have now reached the point where it is known, both clinically and through research, that falls can be prevented in many ways. Promoting exercise at all ages and reducing sedentary behavior (which is linked to mortality) are some of the ways. You might say, “Yes, we knew that—anything new?” My answer is that a personalized exercise program tailored to someone’s needs can be created by a physiotherapist in just one session. This customized program, based on balance, strength, and weight-bearing exercises (even just body weight without special equipment), can reduce future falls by up to 23%.
Moreover, most falls and injuries from falls happen at home due to loss of balance/dizziness, slipping, or tripping over potential obstacles. It has been found that a relatively simple home safety assessment and modifications by a specialized physiotherapist are cost-effective interventions for fall injury prevention when performed.
It’s time to adapt to the new reality in the hopeful year of 2023, especially if someone wasn’t aware before. For elderly individuals struggling with mobility, balance, or lifestyle changes due to an inability to return to their previous state, DON’T WAIT FOR IT TO HAPPEN! The fracture can be prevented, and the vicious cycle previously mentioned can be avoided. A physiotherapist can once again stop the progression of the problem with a personalized program.
Most falls and injuries from falls happen at home due to balance loss/dizziness, slipping, or tripping (Choi, Choi, et al., 2019), and it has been shown that a simple home safety assessment and modifications are cost-effective fall injury prevention strategies.
Before discussing the benefits of an exercise program for the elderly, it’s worth mentioning that the cost of a prevention program is much lower than that of rehabilitation after a fracture. So, according to the entire medical community, prevention always wins.
The main benefits of exercise include the prevention of:
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Strokes
- Bedsores
- Dependency on others
- Obesity
- And, of course, falls
Through the program, the elderly will:
- Improve muscle and bone mass
- Enhance sleep quality
- Strengthen the immune system
- Boost brain function and memory
A series of specific balance and strength exercises has been proven to prevent falls and improve balance and confidence. Research shows that people aged 65-90 who follow a three-month physical exercise program under the supervision of a physiotherapist can restore 20 years of lost strength!
So, imagine how much exercise can help the elderly. Actually, don’t leave it to your imagination. If you know an older person who is struggling, call a physiotherapist and watch it happen in front of you.
Most falls and the resulting injuries can be prevented. It’s never too late to get fit and enjoy your life.
