Falls Prevention Awareness Day is September 22nd of every year, the beginning of fall. 2020 marked the first year of observing Falls Prevention Awareness Week (September 20th – 24th) as this matter is serious and requires more attention.
Every year, one in four adults over the age of 65 experiences a fall. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), less than half of those that fall will tell their doctor, and falling once can in fact double the chances of falling again in the future.
While a lot of falls may not cause injuries, one out of five falls causes serious harm. Falls can cause broken bones, head injuries, hip fractures, etc. Head injuries can be especially serious for an older individual if they take certain medications (like blood thinners). And even if an injury doesn’t occur during the first fall, many who experience a fall are afraid of falling again. The fear of falling may convince an individual to reduce their everyday activity, and when a person is less active they become weaker, with the increased chance of falling.
Below is a list from the CDC of risk factors that may make you more likely to fall. Risk factors can be changed or modified to prevent falls, speak with your doctor if you have concerns.
- Lower body weakness
- Vitamin D deficiency (not enough Vitamin D in your system)
- Difficulties with walking and balance
- Use of medicines, such as tranquilizers, sedatives, or antidepressants. Even some over-the-counter medicines can affect balance and how steady you are on your feet.
- Vision problems
- Foot pain or poor footwear
- Home hazards or dangers such as broken or uneven steps, and throw rugs or clutter that can tripped over.
“Most falls are caused by a combination of risk factors. The more risk factors a person has, the greater their chances of falling.
Healthcare providers can help cut down a person’s risk by reducing the fall risk factors listed above.” CDC.gov
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