Did you know that September 22 is Falls Prevention Day? This date is the beginning of the fall season. Falls are a main source of injury for the elderly. It is a major public health issue as it is a leading cause of injury-related ER visits. It can cause many injuries in the elderly such as hip fractures and bruising and it can even be fatal. This is why seniors need extra protection and care to help prevent falls.

History of Fall Prevention Awareness Day

As people get older, they may develop bad vision or weakened muscles that result in poor strength and coordination. In 1972, the personal emergency response system was invented by a psychology professor named Andrew Dibner. This system helps those who have fallen and cannot get to the phone to instead use this device to get help. In 1976, Dibner was awarded the patent for Lifeline Systems.

This was a great invention that gave the elderly peace of mind in case of a fall. Then, in 1987, there was the invention of Life Alert by Isas Shepher. This device could be worn as a necklace or a wristband which had an automated dialer and was connected to the phone line. As more emergency systems were invented over time, they became accessible to most of those in need.

Life Alert became popular from its commercial in the 1990s in which there was the memorable phrase “I’ve fallen, and I can’t get up.” This helped this brand take off and be used by many in the U.S.

In 2007, Falls Prevention Day was recognized on a state level by four states. The following year, the Falls Free State Coalitions on Falls Prevention Workgroup wanted Fall Prevention Awareness Day to be on the first day of fall. Now, many states are trying to solve this public issue and prevent fall injuries by working with medical professionals and supporters.

Falls Prevention Awareness Day FAQs

What are the most common causes of falls?

• Some of the most common reasons for falls include weakness in the lower body, deficiency in Vitamin D, difficulty with balance, vision issues, pain in feet, and poor footwear.

What happens after a fall?

• The injuries can be small or large, however, they can cause broken bones and even head injuries.

Where can I donate?

• If you are interested in donating to fall prevention, you can visit www.ncoa.org.

How to Observe Falls Prevention Awareness Day

• Spend time with the elderly:

It is important to spend time with your elderly loved ones and make sure they know you are there if they need you. Many seniors may feel like they are a burden on their loved ones. Make sure to let them know that you can help with whatever they need and ensure that they are taking care of themselves.

• Celebrate with education-based activities:

There are various ways you can get involved so that you can help the cause such as state and national activities. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) has a celebration of the Falls Prevention Awareness Day where they provide screening education, advocacy activities, and even community-based fall prevention programs. Make sure to get informed so that you can help spread awareness of this issue.

• Become an activist for the elderly:

There are many things that can be done to make life easier for the elderly. Look around your home and community and see how they can be affected by their surroundings. Check for slippery bathtubs that need mats, uneven floors, or stairs without handrails and contact the proper parties to get the space safer for them.

Five Facts About Falls Prevention Awareness Day

• Falls per second:

In the United States, an adult 65 or older falls every second of the day.

• The price of falling:

In 2015, there was more than $31 billion spent on Medicare costs due to elderly falls that required medical attention.

• Injury per year:

There are more than 3 million older adults who get treated for fall-related injuries every year.

• Brain trauma:

Falls are a common cause of traumatic brain injuries.

• Worldwide stats:

Worldwide, falls are the second leading cause of accidental or unintentional injury deaths.

Why Falls Prevention Awareness Day Is Important

• Respect your elders:

In our society, we need to do a better job taking care of our most vulnerable population, which is the elderly. They deserve respect and to be taken care of.

• Injuries will worsen if we don’t do something:

If falls are not prevented, they could be fatal. When the elderly fall, they may sustain injuries that cause their mobility to worsen, which can cause them not to be able to move around as much.

• More time with the elderly:

You should try and spend time with your elderly relatives as they are older, and each moment should be treasured. It is important to also spread awareness and make sure to protect their health so that you can have more of those moments and memories with loved ones.

Here are specific steps to prevent senior falls:

1. Regular Exercise:
   • Encourage seniors to engage in regular physical activity to improve strength, balance, and coordination. Activities like tai chi, yoga, and water aerobics can be especially beneficial.
2. Medication Management:
   • Ensure that seniors are aware of the potential side effects of their medications, especially those that can cause dizziness or affect balance. Regularly review medications with healthcare providers to assess their necessity and adjust dosages if necessary.
3. Regular Vision Check-ups:
   • Schedule regular eye exams to address any vision problems. Poor eyesight can contribute to falls, so it’s essential to keep prescriptions up-to-date.
4. Home Safety Modifications:
   • Conduct a home safety assessment to identify and address hazards, such as loose rugs, clutter, poor lighting, and uneven floors. Install handrails and grab bars in areas like bathrooms and staircases.
5. Proper Footwear:
   • Encourage seniors to wear supportive, non-slip footwear that fits well and provides stability. Avoid high heels or shoes with slippery soles.
6. Nutrition and Hydration:
   • Promote a balanced diet rich in nutrients to maintain strength and bone health. Ensure seniors stay hydrated, as dehydration can lead to weakness and dizziness.
7. Fall Detection Devices:
   • Consider using fall detection devices or wearable alert systems that can automatically notify emergency services or loved ones in case of a fall.
8. Regular Check-ups:
   • Schedule regular check-ups with healthcare providers to monitor overall health, including conditions like osteoporosis or low blood pressure that can increase the risk of falls.
9. Home Modifications:
   • Make necessary home modifications, such as installing handrails on both sides of staircases, adding non-slip mats to the bathroom, and securing cords and wires to prevent tripping.
10. Assistive Devices:
    • If needed, provide seniors with assistive devices like canes, walkers, or wheelchairs to enhance mobility and stability.
11. Foot Care:
    • Encourage seniors to maintain proper foot care. Regular nail trimming and attention to foot health can prevent foot problems that might lead to falls.
12. Fall Prevention Programs:
    • Look for fall prevention programs and classes in the community that offer exercises and education specifically designed to reduce the risk of falls.
13. Stay Active Socially:
    • Loneliness and social isolation can contribute to falls. Encourage seniors to stay socially active and maintain connections with friends and family.
14. Regularly Review and Update Strategies:
    • Periodically revisit and update fall prevention strategies based on changes in health, mobility, and living conditions.
15. Emergency Plan:
    • Ensure that seniors have a plan in case of a fall or other emergency. This may include having access to a phone or medical alert system.
16. Caregiver Support:
    • Caregivers should provide support and assistance as needed, especially for seniors with mobility issues or cognitive impairments.

Call Assisting Hands for Your Loved Ones

Do you have an elderly family member who is at risk of falling? Assisting Hands Home Care in Broward County, Florida can help. Our highly skilled caregivers will ensure your loved one moves around their home safely by removing any trip hazards to ensure a clear path.

For more information on our fall prevention services for seniors, call us today at (954) 859-2271.