From September 23-27, we join the National Council on Aging (NCOA) in observing Fall Prevention Awareness Week. This national initiative raises awareness about the critical importance of reducing the risk of falls among older adults, helping them live confidently without the constant fear of falling. Falls are preventable, and with the right steps, we can make a real difference.
Why is Fall Prevention So Important?
Falls are a significant health issue for seniors. Each year, about 14 million older adults in the U.S. experience a fall—roughly 1 in 4 adults over the age of 65. Unfortunately, these incidents often result in serious injuries, making falls the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries in this age group. According to studies, falling once doubles the likelihood of falling again.
Beyond the physical and emotional toll, falls have a huge financial impact. The healthcare costs related to falls are projected to reach $101 billion by 2030. While the statistics may be alarming, the good news is that many falls can be prevented with proactive measures.
What Can You Do to Prevent Falls?
Fall-related injuries range from minor bruises to severe fractures and head injuries. The most common injuries involve broken bones, such as wrists, arms, ankles, and hips. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the risk of these incidents:
1. Fall-Proof Your Home:
- Lighting: Seniors often experience diminished vision, making it harder to spot potential hazards. Ensure that all areas of the home, particularly stairwells and hallways, are well-lit. Motion-activated lights can be especially helpful, turning on automatically as someone walks by.
- Handrails: Make sure handrails are securely installed on both sides of stairs. They provide vital support and balance, reducing the risk of falls.
- Declutter: Keep common walking areas free of clutter, such as books, shoes, and clothes. These items can easily cause a trip and fall if left on the floor or stairs.
- Carpets and Mats: Ensure that all carpets and mats are securely fastened to the floor. Non-slip strips can be added for extra safety, or consider removing loose rugs altogether to avoid tripping hazards.
- Grab Bars: Install grab bars in high-risk areas, such as near the toilet and inside or outside the shower. These provide stability and can prevent falls in the bathroom, where many incidents occur.
- Cords and Wires: Keep electrical cords away from walkways. Tidy up any exposed wires that could easily become tripping hazards.
2. Stay Physically Active: Safely engaging in regular physical activity can help maintain strength, flexibility, and balance, all of which are critical in preventing falls. Talk to your doctor about any concerns, and consider working with a physical therapist. Whether at home or in an outpatient setting, therapy can be tailored to your needs and focus on improving the muscle groups essential for daily tasks. Even simple exercises can go a long way toward maintaining independence and mobility.
Get Involved and Stay Safe
Fall Prevention Awareness Week is a great opportunity to educate yourself and others about the steps you can take to minimize fall risks. Take a falls risk assessment through NCOA’s Falls Free Checkup tool, and explore more resources from the Administration for Community Living on falls prevention.
While aging brings certain challenges, it’s important to remember that falling doesn’t have to be inevitable. By making small changes and staying active, seniors can continue to enjoy their daily lives with confidence and safety.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Data and Research on Falls.” Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/falls/data-research/index.html
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Falls: Key Facts and Statistics.” Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/falls/data-research/facts-stats/index.html
- Administration for Community Living (ACL). “Falls Prevention Awareness Week 2023.” Available at: https://acl.gov/news-and-events/events-and-observances/falls-prevention-awareness-week-2023
- National Council on Aging (NCOA). “Evidence-Based Falls Prevention Programs.” Available at: https://www.ncoa.org/article/evidence-based-falls-prevention-programs/
