דלג לתפריט ראשי דלג לרכיב חיפוש דלג לתוכן מרכזי דלג לאזור קישורים תחתון

Falls when you are elderly

It is important to understand that with advancing age, the incidence of falls increases significantly. Falls among older adults, for various reasons, often result in fractures of the hip or neck of the femur, requiring surgery, extended rehabilitation, and in many cases, permanent disability. Therefore, it is crucial to do everything possible to prevent falls.

By Gabi Sadeh, Director of Physical Therapy Services, Leumit Health Services

Statistics and Data on Falls

  • Around one-third of independent individuals aged 65 and older, and approximately half of those aged 80 and above, experience one or more falls per year.
  • For those who have already experienced a fall, there is a 2-3 times higher likelihood of falling again.
  • Falls rank as the fifth leading cause of death among seniors.
    40% of those hospitalized due to falls will not return to independent living, and 25% of them will die within the first year following the fracture.
  • The most common underlying cause of falls is related to the loss of balance.
  • The majority of falls occur within or near the individual's home.


The prevalence of falls among the elderly population living in the community increases with age and stands at:

  • Ages 65-74: 25%
  • Ages 75-79: 30%
  • Ages 80 and above: 120%
    (More than one fall per year)

Maintaining Balance in the Golden Years

To achieve proper balance, several factors are required, including:

  • A healthy musculoskeletal system.
  • Cognitive abilities such as attention and concentration.
  • An intact sensory system.
  • Spatial orientation.

Preventing Falls

Early detection is of utmost importance in preventing falls. Early detection includes:

  • Inquiring about past falls, including those without severe injuries.
  • Weight-bearing assessments, performed by a physical therapist to assess fall risk.

Referral to physical therapy in case of identified fall risk.Physical therapy can significantly help in fall prevention. Physical therapy treatment includes a wide range of areas aimed at reducing the risk of falls, including:

  • Improving the musculoskeletal system with an emphasis on muscle strengthening, enhancing range of motion, and practicing weight-shifting reactions.
  • Providing walking aids when necessary.
  • Recommendations for home modifications tailored to the patient's needs, such as removing hazards like rugs, improving lighting, installing handrails in bathrooms and showers, using appropriate footwear, and more.

Leumit Health Services offers physical therapy services in medical centers and clinics.
A referral from the treating physician is required to access these services

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