As people grow older, they become more fragile and are susceptible to falls. Fortunately, ACEP recently released a new guideline for managing elderly patients who experience falls. Foot problems or inappropriate footwear can contribute to falls and injury. The best shoes are walking shoes with flat soles, such as sneakers.
Night lights can make it easier to walk in the house at night and reduce the risk of falls.
The elderly are the fastest growing age group in the United States, according to ACEP, and studies show that the elderly use emergency medical services at twice the rate of other age groups. By the 2050, it is estimated that older people will makeup 25 percent of the population, outnumbering children by the year 2020. As the elderly population increases, so does the need to understand how to treat and prevent injures from falls. Medical experts advise you or someone you are caring for to see a doctor after a fall.