Risk Factors for Falling

Some changes due to aging can increase the risk of falling. As the body ages, sensation in the feet may decrease. So when older people step on or bump into an obstacle, they may not notice it right away and may fall. Also, the body responds to changes in position less well. For example, when a person stands, the body may be unable to make the necessary changes in blood flow and blood pressure. Blood pressure may decrease excessively, making the person feel light-headed. This disorder, called orthostatic hypotension, can increase the risk of falling. Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) and heart failure can also cause low blood pressure with light-headedness and thus increase the risk of falling.

The eyes and specialized structures in the inner ear help the body maintain balance. The eyes and ears also help people notice and avoid hazards. The nervous system helps the body know what its position is (for example, standing up straight or bending over). The muscles and bones help the body maintain and change position. Disorders that affect any of these body parts can increase the risk of falling. Disorders that interfere with walking (such as Parkinson's disease) or that weaken muscles (such as an underactive thyroid gland, or hypothyroidism) are common causes of falls.

Drugs that cause drowsiness can increase the risk of falling. These drugs include sleep aids and opioid pain relievers (analgesics). Drugs that lower blood pressure (such as antihypertensives and certain antidepressants) can also increase the risk of falling. A drug is most likely to cause a fall when a person first starts taking the drug or when the dose is changed.

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