Today, September 23, 2014 is the 7th annual Falls Prevention Awareness Day.
Falls Prevention educates more than 2 million people across 47 states on how to reduce fall-related injuries among older adults.
According to the ODH Office of vital statistics, every year 1 in 3 people over the age of 65 has a fall, and this number increases to every 1 in 2 people by the age of 80. From 2000-2012, Ohioans aged 65 and older experienced a 165% increase in the number of fatal falls. Falls are the leading cause of emergency room visits, and in some instances death. In 2012 falls were the leading cause of injuries in Ohio with 17,701 individuals reporting injury cases. Although older adults only account for 15% of Ohio citizens, they account for 84% of fatal falls. There are at least 3 deaths per day, 1 hospitalization per hour, 6 Emergency Department visits per hour. An older adult is injured from falling and someone falls every 2 minutes.
Some tips to prevent falling:
- Increase and improve physical activity
Community exercise programs
Walking programs
– Increase strength and mobility
Tai Chi
Matter of Balance
– Educate yourself: Falls Among Older Adult PowerPoint
– The State Plan for Reducing Older Adult Falls through Collaboration
and Partnership
Being aware of the steps to take to Prevent a Fall
Try these home safety modification tips:
– Reduce tripping hazards
No wires or cords on the floor
Keep stairs clutter-free
- Add grab bars inside and outside of the tub/shower and next to the
toilet
- Add railings on both sides of the stairs
- Improve the lighting in your home
- Make sure rugs are secured to the floor
National Falls Prevention is designed to reduce the number of falls among older adults. Spreading awareness on this National Falls Prevention Day is just the first step in helping reduce the number of fall-related injuries. Contact your state coalition and get involved in falls prevention today!
Additional Resources:
Visit the CDC to check for safety in order to prevent falling.
