Understanding Falls Prevention for Older Adults
Falls are more than accidents-they’re a leading threat to the safety, dignity, and independence of older adults in America. Whether it’s a neighbor, a loved one, or ourselves, most of us know someone who has suffered a fall. Fortunately, falls are not an inevitable part of aging. With thoughtful lifestyle changes, supportive community programs, and strong partnerships between healthcare providers and caregivers, we can greatly reduce the risk.
Why Falls Are a Growing Concern
– Every year, 14 million Americans aged 65 and older-roughly 1 in 4-experience a fall.
– Falls remain the leading cause of injury-related deaths and ER visits among older adults.
– In 2021 alone, falls resulted in over 38,000 deaths and 3 million ER visits.
– By 2030, the cost of treating fall-related injuries in seniors is expected to exceed $101 billion.
– Currently, the average cost per hospital stay after a fall is $18,658, with ER visits averaging $1,112.
– Medicare shoulders nearly two-thirds of the expenses related to non-fatal falls, with the rest falling on
Medicaid and out-of-pocket family contributions.
What Increases the Risk?
– A previous fall significantly increases the likelihood of falling again.
– Vision impairment nearly doubles the risk of falling.
– Hearing loss can triple one’s fall risk, though consistent hearing aid use can cut that risk in half.
– Balance issues, lower body weakness, and chronic illnesses (like arthritis or diabetes) affect stability and
gait.
– Certain medications may cause dizziness or drowsiness, contributing to falls.
– Unsafe home environments-such as loose rugs, cluttered walkways, and poor lighting-are frequent culprits.
– Psychological effects of falling, such as fear, can cause people to limit activities, which in turn reduces
mobility and increases risk.
What You Can Do Today
– Take a Fall Risk Self-Check
Use trusted tools like the Falls Free CheckUp to assess your or a loved one’s risk.
– Speak with Your Provider
Ask about balance assessments, medication reviews, and home safety evaluations.
– Stay Active
Programs focused on strength, balance, and flexibility (such as Tai Chi or walking groups) are powerful
preventive tools.
– Modify Your Home
Install grab bars, improve lighting, and clear walkways to make your space safer.
National Efforts to Prevent Falls
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) leads the charge through its National Falls Prevention Resource
Center, offering:
– Public education on fall risks and prevention.
– Support for evidence-based programs that empower older adults.
– A national clearinghouse of tools, best practices, and resources.
Through its Falls Free Initiative, NCOA also:
– Guides states in raising awareness through National Falls Prevention Awareness Week every September.
– Drives policy, funding, and education efforts to ensure prevention is prioritized nationwide.
– Publishes and updates the Falls Free National Action Plan, a roadmap for communities to reduce falls
across clinical, home, and community settings.
Take the First Step
Falls are preventable. Start by having an honest conversation with your loved ones and your care team. Take
a few moments to check your risk-and act today to protect your tomorrow.
Check your risk today: Falls Free CheckUp (www.ncoa.org)
Have questions? Companion Services Inc. is here to help. Call us at (646) 701-3873 for guidance and
compassionate support.
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