Falls Prevention Awareness Day

September 23, 2015, the First Day of Fall, is also Falls Prevention Awareness Day.

More than 10,000 Americans turn 65 every day. Among this age group, falls are the leading cause of injury, making falls a growing concern for older adults across the nation.

The emergency room treats these types of injuries every 13 seconds and claims a life every 20 minutes, according to the CDC. Each year, 1 out of 3 older adults’ falls, yet less than half tell their doctor. While falls can cause various health risks, they can be prevented.

The CDC along with the National Council on Aging (NCOA) is taking a stand to prevent falls and launching Falls Free Initiative. Visit their Web site to follow the event and use hashtag #FPAD15 on social medial.

CDC Working to Prevent Falls

The agency is working to make fall prevention a routine part of clinical care through STEADI (Stopping Elderly Accidents Deaths & Injuries) initiative.

What Patients Can Do To Prevent Falls

• Adhering to a few of the strategies below can help older adults decrease the risk of falling.
• It is important to discuss your fall risk with your doctor as it can help to identify problems and also help to stay independent longer.
• Exercising regularly can greatly reduce the risk of falling.
• A yearly eye exam is important. Update your glasses as needed and consider a pair with single vision distance for outdoor activities.
• Inspect your home and make it safer. Remove items that pose a fall hazard. Add grab bars inside the tub and/or shower and near the toilet. Put railings on the stairs. And ensure your home has adequate lighting.

For more tips, help and information about preventing falls, please visit the CDC Web site.