Increases in life expectancy across most of the world is leading to a rapidly ageing population where most people can expect to live into their late 70s and early 80s. As we live longer, a rethinking of later years is necessary. Retirement is now being framed as a “second adulthood” as older people spend those “extra years” in other ways, perhaps pursing new careers, further education or focusing on hobbies and travel. Health will be a key factor that will influence longevity of life and the opportunities you may pursue in those latter years. A decline in physical abilities has negative implications for older people and societal costs. Therefore, it is vital that you focus on your health and well-being as you age.

Older populations represent great diversity with varying levels of physical and mental capacity. Most of the health problems that confront older people are associated with chronic conditions, many of which can be either prevented or delayed by engaging in healthy behaviours. The World Report on Ageing and Health focuses strongly on the importance of “Healthy Ageing” and how we can support people with this quest. We cannot stop the ageing process but we can focus on maintaining and improving our capacity and functional ability, enhancing well-being in older age. For example, we know that strength training can improve muscle mass and this has a direct impact on mobility and independence. So, it is vital to engage with exercise, physical activity and strength training from an early age and continue it as you age.

Risk of falls

Falls and related injuries are increasingly common and are the most commonly reported incident within the HSE. More than one in four people aged 65 or older fall each year. The costs involved in managing the consequences of falls is estimated to increase to nearly €2bn by 2030 according to the Irish Centre for Social Gerontology. This makes the prevention and management of falls a critical challenge. A simple trip or slip can begin a cascade of more serious health issues and long-term disability, especially for older people. The risk of falling increases with age. As we grow older, we begin to lose both muscle and bone strength and this has an impact on our balance. The good news is that most falls can be prevented.

Poor eyesight, reduced hearing, certain medications and continence issues can impact your chances of falling. Other medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, foot issues or problems with your thyroid can also affect your balance and lead to falls. We can reduce our risk of falling by focusing our efforts on healthy ageing. Staying active and engaging in a regular exercise program is an important way to combat loss of muscle and bone strength.

Muscle weakness and poor balance are two risk factors for falling, which can unfortunately lead to injuries like hip fractures requiring hospitalisation. Thankfully, both muscle strength and balance can be improved and the Centre for Ageing Better have confirmed the importance of engaging in both strength and balance training across your lifetime, most importantly in those latter years.

1. Ask your GP or pharmacist to review your medications. Some medications may cause dizziness or reduced alertness/ slowness which can impact your balance.

2. Get your eye sight checked. Under the PRSI Treatment Benefit scheme you can get a free eyesight test every two years. You can also get contributions towards contact lenses for medical reasons.

3. Avoid multifocal glasses as these can increase risk of trips/ falls in older people.