How to reduce falls while living with Parkinson’s Disease
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Slips, trips and near misses can happen to anyone! Depending on how it occurs, falls can easily result in anything from minor injuries to even life-threatening traumas.
Living with Parkinson’s Disease presents unique challenges, one of the most significant being the increased risk of falls, with around 60% reporting a fall every year. As Parkinson’s changes the way people move, it often results in difficulties with balance, posture and walking that may lead to falls.
Here are some common reasons for falls in Parkinson’s:
- Reduced blood pressure
Postural hypotension is a condition where blood pressure drops from a change in bodily position resulting in dizziness. This often happens when rising quickly from the bed to sitting or standing. It can also occur as a side effect of Parkinson’s medication.
- Mobility changes
Parkinson’s alters the way people move; changes posture and affects balance. The shoulders droop, the chin juts forward, and the elbows and knees often bend. Steps become slower and shorter which can lead to tripping. The body’s natural reflexes to maintain posture becomes disrupted.
- “Freezing”
Described as the feet being ‘glued’ to the ground, freezing can be triggered by doorways, narrow spaces, even the thought of getting to the toilet in time.
- Thinking changes
Focusing on a single task could be tough enough, let alone multi-tasking. Walking while distracted (by a phone, or surroundings) can lead to a tumble!
Are you at risk of falling?
- Have you had a fall in the past year?
- Do you experience “freezing” while walking?
- Do you feel unsteady on your feet?
- Do you require a walking aid for stability?
- Do you take any medications that may affect your balance?
If you answered YES to any of the above, you may be at risk of falling.
Tips to reduce falls and injuries
- Review medications
Visit your GP to review all medications taken that might be contributing to fall risk including those that cause drowsiness, dizziness or sudden movement
- Check blood pressure
What brings about your drop in blood pressure- Is it medication cycle? Meals? Anxiety? Change in position? Time of day? Standing for long periods? Standing still after exercise? Straining? Eating large, carb high meals? Warm environments like showers/saunas?
If unsure, keep a journal as it is crucial to treat the exact cause.
- Make your home safe
Remove clutter, loose rugs and mats and ensure proper lighting. Engaging an Occupational Therapist for a comprehensive home assessment can be especially helpful to mitigate potential hazards.
- Stay active
Start with low-intensity exercises and get into a variety of exercises including flexibility, strengthening and aerobic types. Ensure adequate hydration before, during and after exercising, a 5-6 minute warm up when commencing and add in a cool down at the end to avoid abrupt stopping of exercises.
Discover safe ways to move and save yourself from falling. A Physiotherapist can give you advice on whether an assistive device will help you and progress your exercises appropriately.
Learn how Life Ready Mobile can help you with staying on your feet by contacting us or making a booking here.
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