Did you know that every year one in three elderly people fall, which often result in serious complication and can lead to death?

It happens to be the fifth-leading cause of death in older adults. Many elderly patient's I see, no matter what time of year, come in with injuries suffered from a fall.

It seems like more and more patients I see on a daily basis are visiting me because of a recent fall. Falls can cause moderate to severe injuries such as hip fractures and head traumas, and can cause early admission to nursing homes and potentially increase the risk of early death.

However, it is surprising that less than half of those who have fallen will see their doctor after their fall.

I strongly encourage elderly individuals to see a physician for evaluation immediately following a fall. Doctors can help determine the underlying cause of the fall and how to prevent future falls. There are simple ways to prevent falls from happening in the home.

The following tips are helpful:

Remove hazards throughout the home. Be sure to remove electrical cords from the walkway, secure rugs, and use a non-slip bath mat or install a grab-bar for showering or bathing.

Wear sensible shoes. Avoid high heels or loose-fitting slippers. Wear shoes with rubber soles, and make sure you are using salt on driveways and walkways during winter months.

Light up your living space. Keep your home well lit not only in the daytime, but also during the evening. Use night lights and illuminated light switches, and keep a flashlight nearby.

Use assistive devices as needed. You might need to use a cane or walker to help keep your balance. Remember, these devices can save your life.

Unfortunately, I often see elderly patients limit their daily activity because they have a fear of falling. I encourage patients to keep moving as long as they can. Staying active will help maintain your quality of life. Low-impact exercises can help improve strength, coordination and balance.

If you are having a trouble with repeated falls, there might be a need to re-evaluate with your physician the medication you are taking. It could be adversely affecting you, or you could have a condition that might be increasing your fall risk.

As our population continues to age, so does the increase of falls. Medical costs associated with falls have increased over the past 10 years from $19 billion to $28.2 billion annually. In the next 17 seconds after reading this column, an older adult will be treated in a hospital emergency department for injuries related to a fall. 

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David Dorsey, MD, is a family medicine physician on staff with SSM DePaul Health Center. His offices are located at 12255 DePaul Drive, Suite 600, Bridgeton, Mo., 63044, in the North Medical Office Building. He can be reached at 314-209-5100.