A life can often start with plenty of falls – stumbles learning to walk and tumbles off of bikes or skateboards.
For the elderly, life's end can also be quickened by a fall and the complications that can follow.
Twenty per cent of the elderly who fall will pass away within a year, and half those who survive will end up in a nursing home setting.
The fear of falling can lead to a change of habits or loss of favourite activities, which some said affects their life.
"I couldn't get up to get myself a drink sometimes," said Marie Joannise, who said she can't bake at home anymore after triple bypass surgery and some serious falls. "At my age when you fall and break a hip or something, I was told I was never coming back (home.)"
Joannise was referred to the Bruyere Day Hospital, where she rehabs and also learns tips to prevent falls.
Some examples are:
- Small pets, which could be a tripping hazard
- Avoiding small rugs or taping down the edges to avoid tripping
- A new bathtub design that can help reduce slips and falls
- Not rushing around the home to answer the phone or the doorbell
Pat Love, 84, said she had an occupational therapist from Bruyere stop by recently to help her stay in her home.
"I have been quite independent most of my life," she said. "I know I have to lose some of that, but I am holding on."
With a report from CTV Ottawa's health reporter Kate Eggins
Tuesday: Part two of our series looks at over-medication of seniors.
