When we think of falls in older adults, broken hips often come to mind. While fractures are certainly a concern, another serious issue often flies under the radar – concussions. As our population ages, it’s crucial to recognize the hidden dangers of head injuries in seniors, especially after a fall.
“Older adults should be particularly aware of the increased risk of concussions following a fall,” said Stefania Kaplanes, community injury prevention coordinator in the trauma department who is certified by the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) in understanding concussions. “Concussion symptoms in older adults can be subtle and often mistaken with normal aging.”
Warning signs of a concussion may include confusion or memory problems, dizziness or balance issues, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms can often go unnoticed in older adults. It’s crucial we learn to recognize the signs early for prompt treatment.
“When an older adult sustains a concussion, they are more likely to require hospitalization compared to younger individuals,” shared Kaplanes. “If someone is at risk for falls, it’s important to talk with their doctor and consider enrolling in community classes focused on improving balance and fall prevention.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends exercises designed to improve balance and muscle strength including Thai Chi and yoga. The CDC states that performing exercises that improve strength, balance and fitness are the single most important activity that adults can do to stay active and reduce their chances of falling.
In addition, prevention is key to reducing the risk of concussions and some steps older adults and caregivers can take to improve home safety include removing tripping hazards, installing grab bars and non-slip mats in bathrooms, and keeping frequently used items in cabinets that are easy to reach without a step stool. And as the holiday season approaches, avoid step ladders and ask family and friends for help with decorating.
Through community outreach and education, Kaplanes, a Concussion Awareness Now (CAN) Champion is raising awareness about concussions, emphasizing the importance of understanding these risks and focusing on prevention. Last month she and Stephanie Belton, RN and trauma program manager attended the Alameda Hospital Community Health Fair providing educational materials and tools including Fatal Vision® Concussion Goggles, a hands-on awareness tool that is specifically constructed to simulate the potentially debilitating effects of a concussion.
“Using the goggles, participants were able to experience simulated traumatic brain injury symptoms such as dizziness, visual disconnect, disorientation, hesitation, apprehension, confusion, and lack of confidence when trying to perform simple activities while wearing the goggles,” said Kaplanes
In addition, Kaplanes shared that thanks to the Alameda Health System Foundation, she was able to purchase a Balance Tracking System, a scale that assesses one’s fall risk, for her concussion education outreach efforts.
“Most falls are preventable, so our prevention program offers Matter of Balance classes in the community, assesses for fall risk through balance testing, educates about head trauma and concussions using the goggles, and whole-body health as our population ages.”
If you are interested in scheduling concussion awareness education for your department, community group or local school, please contact Stefania Kaplanes at skaplanes@alamedahealthsystem.org.