Exercises reduces "falls"

Currently, India boasts a predominantly youthful population, but a significant demographic shift is anticipated in the next 10 to 15 years. Particularly in southern states, with Kerala leading the way, it is projected that around 20% of the population will be aged 60 and above, followed by Tamil Nadu with 18%. This demographic transition carries numerous implications, with a focus on health repercussions.

As my generation ages, there is likely to be a surge in mortality and morbidity attributed to non-communicable diseases. This shift will give rise to a flood of content, including Instagram reels featuring advice on the best food to eat, how to shit, and an abundance of "5 exercises to reduce" recommendations. We will also are going to consult lot of medical professionals, who if we are lucky will give us good evidence based treatment or advice.

lets talk about Falls:

As a PT the implication for the shift in the demography is going to be profound. But i like to focus on one important issue- “falls”.

Incidence of Falls increase as we grow old independent of disease like Parkinson's. Te risk factors of fall are multifactorial and i am not going to go into details of that. Falls can be fatal or lead to myriad of symptoms from fractures to fear and anxiety leading to reduction of quality of life.

Prevention:

Recognizing the imminent challenge of fall prevention among the elderly, physical therapy (PT) is poised to play a crucial role. Newer high quality evidence for prevention of falls in elderly has shown exercise is a wonderful way to prevent falls.

what exercise: ?

Balance exercise, functional exercise should be the first choice of falls prevention (high quality evidence)

Tai chi , resistance exercise and other also can be enjoyed by older people who want to prevent falls and risk of falls.

So, for 2 important debilitating issues we have high quality evidence which affects the elderly- OA knee and Falls. My only hope is more PTs, orthos read these evidence rather than base the treatment on “i know what’s best”. I hope we make insta reels based on science not on what we know- which we all know is not reliable.

PS the words unlined will take you to the reference

Also note, this is one part of Falls prevention, as it is multifactorial, many other issues may also need to be intervened.