Parkinson's and Falls

How are falls related to Parkinson’s?
About two thirds of the individuals with Parkinson’s may encounter falls. Impaired balance, stooped posture, freezing, poor vision and the symptoms such as muscle weakness, may make one vulnerable to falls. Another cause of falls may be the medications used for various other conditions such antidepressants, sleeping medication and drugs prescribed for high blood pressure.

What are the consequences of falls?
Physical injuries such as bruises, cuts, fractures of bones and concussions can result from falls. These injuries not only interfere with the management of Parkinson’s but also result in decreased independence leading to loss of confidence and depression.

How can I prevent falls in my home?
In order to prevent falls, it is important to make sure that your home is safe. Your residence should be lit enough to allow you to easily navigate through it at the night time. You may also want to install night lights that can guide you to the bathroom if you need to get up at night.

If you have any loose rugs, they should be smoothed out or removed and replaced with wall to wall carpet so they do not make the floor uneven. The carpet helps by acting as a cushion if a fall does occur. If you have bare floors, do not wax them. Also, there should not be any loose objects on the floor on which you could trip over. Similarly, pets such as cats or dogs may lie on the floor causing a trip over.  If you live in a house, make sure your walkway and steps are in good condition.

The furniture inside your home should be strong enough to support your weight, so it can help you in case you lose your balance. Additionally, avoid furniture with glass tops as they may become a hazard. Furniture should not be moved around frequently. In this way, you will be familiar with your surroundings and will be able to find support in case of an emergency.

You should consider installing handrails in your hallway and bathroom. Handrails are also useful on both sides of a staircase. You may also want to mark the beginning and end of stairs with paint. In homes with multiple levels, you should have a phone on each level. Wireless phones may also be very helpful for you. Don’t lock the bathroom door. Non slip bath tub, bath bench, showering, dressing and undressing while sitting, non-skid adhesive strips are also very effective and can be placed inside a tub or a shower stall.

In addition, a ‘Home Safety Assessment’ by an occupational therapist can give you further advice on how to make your home safer.

How can I improve my balance?
By having a good balance, you can prevent falls. You should make sure your shoes are in good shape and are comfortable. They should give you good support and fit well. Avoid high heels.

When walking, you should try not to multitask. When you have Parkinson’s, your automatic reflexes are decreased. Thus, you are at risk of losing your balance if you try to accomplish multiple tasks at once.

Keep one hand free at all times. This will allow you to quickly find support. Additionally, avoid carrying items in both of your hands and if you are standing still, you should try to keep your feet shoulder length apart. When they are closer together you are susceptible to a loss of balance and falling. Keep your outdoor steps clean and free of ice.

What if a fall does occur?
You should keep a phone or an alarm on the floor and wear an alarm bracelet with 911.

This will make it easier for you to get help if the fall renders you unable to reach higher places. If the help is within hearing range, you should consider wearing a whistle. Also, you can have someone check up on you once a day and see if you need help.

If you happen to fall when you are alone, follow these steps to get back into a standing position.

1. Lie down on your back.

2. Swing yourself onto your side.

3. Use your hands and get into a sitting position.

4. Slowly crawl towards the nearest object that can support your weight.

5. Put your hands on the seat of the furniture or chair and space them apart.

6. Bring your best leg up, so your knee is close to your chest.

7. Push up with your feet as well as your hand to get into a standing position.

This information should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your physician.

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