By Jamie Oldham RN BSN CDP

Every 11 seconds, an older adult is seen in an emergency department for a fall-related injury. Many falls are preventable.

As part of our Webinar - Top 5 Practical Tips: When the Diagnosis is Dementia, the first tip is SAFETY FIRST.

Falls Prevention Week typically focuses on raising awareness about the risks of falls and promoting strategies to prevent them, particularly among older adults.

Here are some key points and statistics that highlight the importance of the Falls Prevention Week initiative:

• Purpose: Falls Prevention Week aims to educate the public about the risks of falls and the steps that can be taken to prevent them. It emphasizes community resources, safety assessments, and the importance of maintaining physical activity.
• Target Audience: While falls can affect anyone, the focus is often on older adults, who are at greater risk due to factors like decreased balance, muscle strength, and vision changes.

Statistics

• Prevalence: Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, with one in four seniors falling each year in the U.S.
• Injury Rates: Falls result in approximately 3 million emergency department visits annually for older adults, with a significant percentage leading to serious injuries such as fractures or head trauma.
• Cost of Falls: The medical costs associated with fall-related injuries are substantial, estimated to reach $50 billion annually in the U.S.
• Prevention Impact: Evidence-based fall prevention programs can reduce the number of falls by 30-50%. These programs often include exercise, home safety evaluations, and medication reviews.

• Prevention Strategies

  • Home Safety: Making modifications in the home, such as removing tripping hazards, i.e. rugs or boxes, improving lighting, and installing grab bars can enhance safety. Keep your home safe!
  • Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, particularly strength and balance training, can significantly reduce fall risk. Find a good balance and exercise program to build balance, strength, and flexibility. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for referrals. Find a program you like and take a friend.
  • Vision Checks: Regular eye exams can help detect vision problems that may increase fall risks. Get your vision and hearing checked annually and update your eyeglasses. Your eyes and ears are key to keeping you on your feet.
  • Medication Review: Consulting with healthcare providers about medications can help identify those that may contribute to dizziness or balance issues. Regularly review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist. Make sure drug side effects aren't increasing your risk of falling. Take medications only as prescribed.
  • Talk to your health care provider: Ask for an assessment of your fall risk. Be sure to share any history of recent falls.
  • Talk to your family members: Enlist their support in taking simple steps to stay safe. Falls are not just a seniors' issue.

Community Resources

• Many communities offer workshops, classes, or resources dedicated to falls prevention. Local health departments or organizations like the National Council on Aging often provide valuable information.

Falls Prevention Week serves as a crucial reminder to individuals, families, and communities about the importance of awareness and proactive measures to reduce fall risks.

Fall Prevention Week serves as a vital reminder of the importance of safeguarding those we care for against the risks of falls. By implementing simple yet impactful strategies like regular exercise to improve strength and balance, ensuring well-lit and clutter-free living spaces, and utilizing assistive devices such as handrails and non-slip mats, we can create a safer environment. Additionally, regular eye check-ups and medication reviews can significantly reduce risks, allowing our seniors to maintain their independence and enjoy life to the fullest.

Reminder for Family members and Caregivers:

Create and utilize fall prevention programs tailored to the person(s) you care for.

·    Encourage movement and assist when necessary

·    Encourage physical activity for as long as possible

·    Evaluate medications (both prescription and over the counter) regularly

·    Evaluate for pain or discomfort regularly

·    Encourage a healthy diet

·    Make updates to the environment with safety in mind (for example, adding grab bars, low beds, bright lighting, or non-skid flooring)

·    Remove throw rugs, cords, and clutter from high-traffic areas

·    Asses the person's vision to ensure it has not deteriorated

Source: NCCDP Staff In-Service "Fall Into Fall: Fall Prevention In-Service for Dementia Clients"

https://www.nccdp.org/september-2024-newsletter/#:~:text=Fall%20Prevention%20Week%20%E2%80%93%20September%2017%2D23rd%2C%202024&text=On%20average%2C%20about%2040%25%20of,of%2065%20fall%20every%20year.

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) and other organizations observe Falls Prevention Awareness Week to raise awareness about preventing falls and reducing the risk of injury. In 2024, Falls Prevention Awareness Week will be held from September 23–27. The theme for 2024 is "From Awareness to Action"

https://www.ncoa.org/professionals/health/center-for-healthy-aging/national-falls-prevention-resource-center/falls-prevention-awareness-week/

Fall Prevention