Preventing Falls

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

“One-third of Americans aged 65+ fall each year. Every 15 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall; every 29 minutes, an older adult dies following a fall. Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults.

Falls result in more than 2.3 million fall injuries treated in emergency departments annually, including over 650,000 hospitalizations and more than 20,000 deaths.

In 2000, the direct medical cost of fatal and nonfatal fall injuries totaled over $19 billion, $28.2 billion in 2010 dollars. The financial toll for older adult falls is expected to increase as the population ages and may reach $54.9 billion by 2020.

Falls with or without injury also carry a heavy quality of life impact. A growing number of older adults fear falling and, as a result, self-limit activities and social engagements. This can result in further physical decline, depression, social isolation, and feelings of helplessness.

What can you do to help prevent them?

Clear clutter off the floor. (Pick up newspapers, books, shoes, magazines, clothes etc.)

Secure or use non-skid rugs or avoid area throw rugs all together

Take extra care with changes in floor surface. (such as when carpet meets tile floors)

Wipe up spills immediately

Always keep steps and staircases clear of debris and well lit

Close drawers and cabinets

Use a sturdy step stool (not a chair), when you need to reach up into those top kitchen cupboards

Install actual grab bars by the toilet, shower and tub. (note: towel racks, soap dishes etc. are not designed to hold a person’s weight) Use a shower chair and handheld showerhead if prone to falling

Use non-skid bath mats by the shower and sink. (they help absorb splashes) & use rubber mats or slip resistant stickers in the bathtub

Watch where you’re walking, avoid distractions; stay focused on what you’re doing

Keep driveways and walkways free of debris, ice and snow

By taking the time to make your home safer you are giving yourself time to enjoy life… One fall could take months to recover from if complete recovery is even possible. Doctor and hospital bills could amount to thousands of dollars. Loss of independence is a top concern for older individuals. Remember injuries are preventable. For further information contact Mary Friesz at the Richland County Health Department 433-2207.