Test Your Knowledge

Question 1

In B.C., how many older adults ages 65 and over living at home typically experience a fall?

A. One in five (20%)
B. One in three (33%)
C. One in two (50%)

The correct answer is B:
About a third of adults age 65 and older living at home will experience a fall.

Question 2

There are many factors which can increase the risk of a fall. What are the most common risk factors?

A. Drinking too much alcohol
B. Foot problems, including inappropriate footwear
C. Weak muscles, poor balance, and decreased reaction time

The correct answer is C:
Although drinking too much alcohol and foot problems can cause you to fall, the majority of falls in older people are caused by weak muscles, impaired balance and slower reaction time.

Question 3

Osteoporosis and fall related fractures are closely linked. What can help prevent osteoporosis?

A. It is not possible to prevent osteoporosis because it is hereditary
B. Regular participation in physical activity and increased calcium and vitamin D intake
C. Taking lots of rest to protect damaged bones

The correct answer is B:
Although osteoporosis runs in families, the risk can be reduced by regular weight-bearing exercise (e.g. running, walking, dancing) and a well balanced diet with enough calcium and vitamin D. Both may help in increasing your bone strength and reducing the rate of bone loss.

Question 4

Calcium can be found in our bones and teeth and is important for the bone density. Which vitamin is needed to help calcium be absorbed into the body?

A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin B
C. Vitamin D

The correct answer is C:
Vitamin D plays a major role in our bone health as it improves the calcium absorption. Getting too little vitamin D can consequently result in the softening and weakening of our bones.

Question 5

Footwear characteristics have been shown to influence balance in older people. What makes an ideal shoe to help prevent falls?

A. A firm back and cover with adjustable fastening, with good ankle support
B. A soft leather sole, which gives both flexibility and grip
C. Tight fitting, made with soft and cushioned material

The correct answer is A:
Your shoes should be well fitted, with enough room and be made of a breathable material. They should have a high cut and firm back, a non-slip and firm sole with a slightly raised heel and adjustable fastening.

Question 6

Eating a well balanced diet is vital if you want to stay healthy and active. This includes drinking plenty of fluids - how much should we consume per day?

A. You should drink when you feel thirsty
B. Between 1 and 1.5 litres (5 - 7 servings)
C. At least 2.5 litres (8-10 servings)

The correct answer is C:
The British Dietetic Association recommends that you should consume at least 2 and 1/2 litres of non-caffeinated fluids a day – this includes water, juice, herbal tea, soups, but not coffee, tea or other caffeinated beverages.

Question 7

You feel light-headed and dizzy when getting up in the morning. What should you do?

A. Stay in bed and get some rest. Get up when you feel better
B. Sit up in the bed for a couple of minutes before standing up, then take a few moments in a standing position before walking
C. Get up quickly and walk around until you feel better

The correct answer is B:
Feeling dizzy when getting up can be caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure. If you feel dizzy or light-headed when getting up in the morning you should get up slowly step-by-step: sit for a minute or two in the bed before standing up: stand for a minute or two before walking.

Question 8

What range of vitamin D intake does the osteoporosis Canada guidelines recommend per day for adults over the age of 50 who are at moderate risk of vitamin D deficiency?

A. 200 – 300 IUs
B. 400 – 600 IUs
C. 800 - 2,000 IUs

The correct answer is C:
The osteoporosis Canada guidelines for adults over the age of 50 who are at moderate risk of vitamin D deficiency, now recommend supplements of 800-2,000 IUs of vitamin D per day is considered safe to take without medical supervision. Current guidelines for daily calcium intake for individuals over 50 years are 1200mg.