BANGALORE: Balance-related problems among the elderly, which could lead to fatal falls, could be related to bone and muscle strength, say experts.
Dr Pretesh Kiran, consultant geriatrician at St John’s Medical College and Hospital, says, “Seniors may stumble or fall due to lack of balance. This is a leading cause of injury and disability among the elderly.”
As people age, he explains, several changes occur, including a decrease in muscle and bone strength, vision, sensation and a generalised sense of balance. In addition, there are several health conditions such as cataract, osteoarthritis (joint pains), an impaired sensation in lower limbs due to diabetes or vitamin B 12 deficiency, blood pressure and dementia that could impair one’s sense of balance.
Polypharmacy, the use of an increased number of medications, could also cause a loss of balance or disorientation or a sudden drop in blood pressure, making the individual more prone to falling.
Bone-related aging may lead to falls
Dr Chandrashekar P, consultant orthopedic surgeon, Sakra World Hospital, says, “Sedentary lifestyle, wear of joints (arthritis) and muscular disorders, associated with old age, can compromise strength and mobility. Change in gait also makes them prone to falls and fractures.”
With loss of activity the body starts losing strength, endurance and flexibility, and thus basic movements like walking become a challenge for some, feel geriatric experts.
They recommend exercise with focus on working all the major muscle groups to combat ageing. It is also advisable to monitor arthritis regularly and visit a doctor when there is a slight change in gait.
Warning bells
Occasionally, balance problems may warn of another medical condition, such as a problems with the heart, brain or nervous system. Due to an overlap of symptoms, balance-related problems can be quite tricky to diagnose.The consequences of a fall are far more serious than the causes of it, ranging from fractures and other injuries to disability or, in the worst scenario, death.
The elderly have a decreased fat and muscle padding and also weakened bones due to osteoporosis and so they easily sustain fractures during a fall.
Experts say that it is important to see a medical professional so that the source of the imbalance can be promptly identified. They should seek advice when such symptoms are seen and treatment is usually simple and effective.
Preventive steps
Dr Chetan Nagaraj, consultant orthopedician from Vikram Hospital, says, “Research has shown that exercise can slow down the physiological aging clock.”
Aerobic exercises such as walking, jogging or swimming benefit better heart and lungs health and increase cardiovascular fitness. Strength training helps too. Cardio with light weight training coupled with walks, especially among those past the 50-year mark, can increase strength by building muscle mass and bone density.
Family support
Experts say seniors often have self-defeating ideas and a low self esteem. They would rather not do workouts or go for walks since they believe they must save up their strength. Dr Nagraj says instead of giving up on its older members, the family should encourage and support them after 50.
“Regular physical activity lowers the risk of Alzheimer’s, dementia, heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, high blood pressure and obesity,” adds Dr Kiran.
Make your house senior-friendly
Ensure adequate lighting in the house, avoid clutter, remove carpets and objects that may pose a risk of tripping, have sturdy and comfortable furniture which is easy to get into and out of, install grab rails especially in slippery areas and have anti-skid flooring, is Dr Kiran’s counsel. “Having level surfaces such as walkways and footpaths outside the house and ensuring adequate lighting are measures that would help,” he adds.
Yoga for balance
The benefits of yoga include increased muscle strength, improved balance and serenity. Generally pranayama (breathing exercises) is helpful. However, seniors must consult a doctor before taking up yoga if they have a chronic condition or are very inactive. Those with spinal disk problems or glaucoma should take special care as there are poses to avoid (twists and inversions, respectively).