Seniors and health-threatening falls: how to spot the risks and take action, RSU assistant professor explains

Writer: Aija Bukova-Žideļūna, PhD,
Associate Professor and Senior Researcher, RSU Institute of Public Health

Falls represent one of the most significant threats to the health and even life of seniors. They can lead to serious injuries, disability, and even death. But why do falls occur more frequently as people age? One major factor is frailty, a condition that can often go unnoticed until it becomes critical.

The challenges of an ageing society

Population ageing has been identified by the European Commission as one of the most pressing social and economic challenges of the 21st century. According to Eurostat, as of 1 January 2024, the European Union had a population of around 449.2 million, over a fifth of whom were aged 65 and older. By 2100, people aged 65+ are projected to make up 32% of the EU population.

Research from the World Bank indicates that countries in Central Europe and the Baltic States, including Latvia, are ageing faster than other parts of Europe. By 2070, it is projected that 45% of Latvia’s population will be over 55. Additionally, life expectancy is increasing – by 2070, men are expected to live 9 to 12 years longer, and women 8 to 9 years longer. However, despite this rise, life expectancy in Latvia remains below the European Union average.

Why pay attention to falls?

Falls can have serious consequences on health and quality of life. As people age, muscles weaken, balance deteriorates, and bones become more brittle, making even small falls potentially damaging. These can lead to fractures, which often require long-term treatment and can result in disability. Furthermore, the fear of falling again often leads to reduced physical activity, further weakening the individual and increasing dependency on others.

Data shows that falls are among the leading causes of death for the elderly. According to the World Health Organisation, they are the second most common cause of death due to unintentional injuries, with the highest risk among those over 60. In Latvia, falls account for approximately 13% of all external causes of death in individuals over 65, with the risk increasing significantly with age.

What is frailty and why is it important?

Frailty refers to a decline in the body's overall ability to handle stress, such as illness, injury, or even normal daily activities. It is characterised by low endurance and a slowed recovery. Frailty makes older people less resilient, reducing their ability to recover from falls and adapt to changes.

Data from the Survey on Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) indicates:

• In Europe, approximately 8% of people over 50 meet the criteria for frailty, while over 40% are in the pre-frailty stage.
• The prevalence of frailty increases with age, rising sharply after the age of 65, with individuals aged 85 and older being most at risk.
• Women generally exhibit higher rates of frailty and pre-frailty across all age groups.
• sociālā izolācija un vientulība ir nozīmīgi riska faktori, kas veicina gan vārguma gan pirmsvārguma attīstību.

• Social isolation and loneliness are significant risk factors for the development of frailty and pre-frailty.

Frailty impacts several vital body systems necessary for maintaining balance and stability. Over time, the body loses its ability to respond effectively to external factors, which increases the risk of falls.

Read the full article in the RSU Zinātnes ekspresis section of the LSM portal (in Latvian)