1.
What does AIEE stand for when talking about falls prevention?
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
AIEE stands for Assess, Identify, Exercise, and Educate when talking about falls prevention. This acronym represents the key steps involved in preventing falls. Assessing involves evaluating the individual's risk factors and their environment. Identifying refers to recognizing any potential hazards that may increase the risk of falls. Exercise involves promoting physical activity to improve strength, balance, and coordination. Educating includes providing information and resources to raise awareness about falls prevention. Therefore, all of the above options are correct as they encompass the comprehensive approach to falls prevention.
2.
In the UK, how many older adults ages 65 and over living at home will experience a fall?
Correct Answer
B. One in three (33%)
Explanation
It is estimated that a third of the population above 65 years will fall every year. This risk further increases with age.
3.
Where do the majority of older people fall?
Correct Answer
C. In hospitals and nursing homes
Explanation
Although the majority of older people living in the community actually fall in their own home, up to 50% of these staying in hospitals or nursing homes have falls.
4.
What are the most common risk factors for a fall?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
The most common risk factors for a fall include wearing inappropriate footwear, having weak muscles and poor balance, and consuming excessive amounts of alcohol. Wearing improper footwear can lead to instability and difficulty in maintaining balance, while weak muscles and poor balance make it more likely for a person to lose their footing. Consuming too much alcohol impairs coordination and judgment, increasing the risk of falls. Therefore, all of the mentioned factors contribute to the risk of falling.
5.
A fall in people with osteoporosis can result in fractures. What can help prevent osteoporosis?
Correct Answer
A. Regular exercise & increased calcium and vitamin D intake
Explanation
Regular exercise helps to strengthen bones and improve bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Calcium and vitamin D are essential nutrients for bone health, as calcium is needed for bone formation and vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. Increasing intake of these nutrients can help prevent osteoporosis.
6.
Falls are a normal part of aging and are not preventable. Is this statement true or false?
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
This statement is false. Falls are not a normal part of aging and can be prevented. While it is true that older adults may be more prone to falls due to factors such as decreased balance and mobility, there are various preventive measures that can be taken. These include regular exercise to improve strength and balance, making the home environment safer by removing hazards, and managing medications that may cause dizziness or imbalance. By taking these precautions, the risk of falls can be significantly reduced.
7.
Falls are the most common cause of injury for seniors. Is this statement true or false?
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
This statement is true. Falls are indeed the most common cause of injury for seniors. As people age, their balance and coordination may decline, making them more prone to falling. Additionally, age-related factors such as muscle weakness, vision problems, and chronic health conditions can further increase the risk of falls. It is important to take preventive measures and create a safe environment for seniors to reduce the likelihood of falls and minimize the potential injuries.
8.
Fear of falling can lower your quality of life and stop you from:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
All of the above
Explanation
Even if a fall does not result in serious consequences, the fear of falling again can often lead to self imposed restriction on mobility, decreased independence, depression and social isolation.
9.
What percentage of hip fractures among seniors are caused by falls?
Correct Answer
D. Over 95%
Explanation
The CDC estimates that over 95% of hip fractures in the elderly are as a result of falls.
10.
What season increases the risk of falls in the elderly?
Correct Answer
A. Winter
Explanation
Though falls can happen at any time of the year, cold weather often exacerbates per-existing medical conditions in the elderly increasing the risk of falls.
11.
What are the most serious consequences of a fall?
Correct Answer
A. Hip fractures
Explanation
Though falls can cause other injuries in an elderly person, the more common injuries are fractures to the hip.
12.
Wearing the right footwear is important. What is the ideal footwear?
Correct Answer
A. Firm back and cover with adjustable fastening, ankle support and non-slip sole
Explanation
The ideal footwear should have a firm back and cover to provide stability and protection for the foot. It should also have adjustable fastening to ensure a proper fit. Ankle support is important to prevent injuries and provide added stability. A non-slip sole is necessary to prevent slipping and provide traction.
13.
What do you do if you feel dizzy when standing up in the morning?
Correct Answer
B. Sit up in the bed for a few minutes before standing up. Stand up for a minute before walking.
Explanation
Dizziness when standing (sometimes referred to as Postural Hypotension) is due to a person's blood pressure suddenly dropping when in upright positions. If this happens take time to sit up and stand before walking to avoid falls and tell your doctor.
14.
If you have poor balance what can help you walk better?
Correct Answer
A. A walking aid. Example - walking stick or frame
Explanation
If you have poor balance, using a walking aid such as a walking stick or frame can help you walk better. These aids provide support and stability, allowing you to maintain your balance while walking. By relying on a walking aid, you can reduce the risk of falling and improve your overall mobility.
15.
Which of the following can help prevent falls in the elderly?
Correct Answer
I. All of the above
Explanation
All of the listed options can help prevent falls in the elderly. Getting a GP to review medication can ensure that any side effects or interactions that may increase the risk of falls are identified and addressed. Removing clutter from indoors and outdoors can minimize tripping hazards. Installing lights in dark hallways and stairways can improve visibility and reduce the risk of falls. Keeping feet healthy and wearing appropriate footwear can provide stability and reduce the risk of slipping. Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly can improve strength and balance. Checking eye sight can help identify any vision problems that may contribute to falls. Avoiding alcohol can prevent impairment and reduce the risk of falls. Therefore, implementing all of these measures can collectively help prevent falls in the elderly.