Good Samaritan Highlights Fall Prevention on First Day of Fall
With the arrival of fall, CHI Health Good Samaritan is alerting the community of a 'silent epidemic' that threatens the independence of millions of older adults: accidental falls.
Falls are the leading cause of death for those over 65, accounting for 4.5 million emergency department visits annually according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Data shows that 83% of hip fracture deaths are directly linked to falls, and because falling once doubles the risk of a second incident, officials are urging immediate preventative action.
"Falling is not an inevitable result of aging," says Tracy Rademacher, RN, trauma prevention, Good Samaritan. "In fact, most falls can be avoided by addressing common underlying risk factors. It might be something as simple as adding a nightlight or removing a tripping hazard, or having your medications, eyesight or hearing checked."
To prevent injuries, Rademacher recommends these steps to help create a hazard-free home:
Declutter: Clear hallways and rooms of loose items, cords, and throw rugs
Maintain Even Surfaces: Repair broken or uneven steps, sidewalks, floors
Improve Lighting: Ensure all areas, especially stairs and pathways to the bathroom, are well-lit
Install Support: Add grab bars in bathrooms and secure handrails on all staircases
Appropriate Footwear: Wear sturdy, nonslip shoes both indoors and outdoors, avoid high heels, slippers, and shoes with slick soles
Rademacher also recommends disclosing any previous falls, feelings of unsteadiness or concerns about falling to a medical professional. She encourages scheduling regular yearly appointments to openly discuss:
Medication Management: Review all medications with a healthcare provider to determine if any could cause dizziness or affect balance
Vision, Hearing, and Foot Assessments: Schedule routine yearly health checkups to verify these factors are not impairing stability
Balance and Strength Exercises: Focus on bone-strengthening activities and regular exercise to maintain core strength and stability
Throughout the month, Rademacher is sharing fall prevention and safety materials with community organizations and services in the area.
For more information on fall prevention statistics and safety resources, visit CDC.gov/falls.