Falling, What is the problem?
It is no secret that falls are a significant concern for aging adults. Falls are the leading cause of injury and death among adults over 65. But what is less known is why falls are such a problem. This post will explore some of the most common causes of falls among older adults and ways to prevent them.
One in every four adults 65 and older in the United States report at least one fall yearly (Center for Disease Control), resulting in 36 million falls yearly.
In 2019, the senior population's leading cause of death was falls and fall-related injuries. Also, in 2019, emergency rooms across the country reported 3 million visits from patients with fall injuries.
The reality is that falls in the senior population are not only familiar but also costly. The financial figure for treating fall-related injuries in the United States is $50 million.
So, that was the bad news, but there is some good news, great news. Falls are preventable. Let me say that again, falls are preventable and are not a normal part of aging. The Center for Disease and Prevention has compiled the resources you need to assist you with healthy aging, living independently, doing it safely, and reducing your fall risk.
The CDC has developed the MyMobility Plan. MyMobility Plan is a remarkable tool to help seniors create their mobility tools. This tool has three crucial components, including:
- Myself: How can I stay independent? (Tips to manage health and maintain mobility)
- MyHome: How to stay safe at home? (Fall prevention checklist)
- MyNeighborhood: How to get around my community?
To access this free tool, please click on the following link: CDC-AdultMobilityTool-9.27.pdf
How to prevent falls?
- Speak Up
- Keep Moving
- Get an Annual Eye Exams
Let's reduce falls together.
Julie Leith, LMSW, MBA