
Falls are one of the leading causes of injuries and loss of independence among older adults. By the age of 65, nearly 30% of adults experience a fall each year, and this percentage increases with age. These falls can lead to fractures and serious injuries, as well as a decrease in quality of life, a fear of falling, and even social isolation.
One often-overlooked factor in evaluating fall risk is hearing loss. It has been shown that there is a strong correlation between hearing impairment and an increased risk of falls. Elderly individuals with hearing loss may have more difficulty perceiving sounds in their environment, which can negatively impact their balance and coordination, thereby increasing their vulnerability to falls.
A Personalized Service to Prevent Falls
To address these issues, we have implemented a fall risk screening service designed to assess the various factors contributing to this phenomenon in order to propose appropriate preventive measures. This screening is conducted by a nurse and targets individuals aged 65 and older who have hearing loss.
1. World Health Organization. WHO Global Report on Falls Prevention in Older Age. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2007.
2. Canadian Hearing Services. Hearing Loss and Falls. https://www.chs.ca/en/blog/hearing-loss-and-falls. Accessed June 26, 2025.