Dementia risk soars after falls.
Each year, more than 14 million seniors experience falls, which can result in serious, sometimes life-altering, consequences. A recent study led by Molly Jarman, deputy director of the Center for Surgery and Public Health at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, has found a potential two-way relationship between falls and dementia. According to Jarman, cognitive decline may increase the likelihood of falls among older adults, and the trauma from these falls could, in turn, speed up the progression of dementia.
The research involved an analysis of Medicare data from over 2.4 million seniors who had experienced traumatic injuries, with half of these injuries resulting from falls. Among these individuals, 10.6% were subsequently diagnosed with dementia. The study also found that those who suffered falls were 21% more likely to be diagnosed with dementia later on. This suggests a need for cognitive screening following a fall to help identify those at higher risk for cognitive decline.
Jarman and her team suggest that seniors hospitalized due to falls should undergo cognitive assessments either in the emergency department or during their hospital stay. Such screenings could facilitate the early detection of cognitive issues, allowing for prompt intervention and treatment.
Dr. Alexander Ordoobadi, the study’s lead author and a surgical resident at Brigham and Women’s, pointed out that while medical professionals focus on treating the injuries and providing rehabilitation, they often overlook the cognitive factors that might have contributed to the fall. He stressed the importance of follow-up care with a primary care physician or geriatric specialist to monitor seniors’ cognitive recovery and long-term health.
However, many seniors face barriers to accessing geriatric care or primary healthcare services. The findings from this study emphasize the need for more healthcare professionals specializing in elder care and the importance of addressing cognitive decline early through comprehensive interventions after a fall.
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