Preventing Falls in Older Adults: National Awareness Month

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Falling is a major concern as people age. People of any age may stumble, trip, or fall, but those problems become more prevalent in older people. Tripping and stumbling can cause serious falls which could result in injury and even death..

Reports indicate that people over the age of 65 have a greater than 25% chance of falling. It is a major health concern for people when they become senior citizens.

Balance may become a big problem and issue as people age. Losing your balance can cause serious falls. Many older people use canes or walkers to keep their balance to prevent falling.

Medical devices which signal someone if the person falls are used by many seniors. They are good for calling for help if a person does fall and is alone.

The month of September has been designated in the United States as National Falls Prevention Month. It is to make people more aware of the dangers of falling and a reminder to be careful whenever walking.

One in four adults is estimated to fall each year. The rate is higher for senior citizens. Falls are the leading cause of injury, hospitalization from trauma, and death from injury for adults who are older than 65 years of age.

If people fall and hit their head, they should get checked out immediately from medical personnel. Hitting the head when falling may cause death or serious injury.

Precautions should be taken to avoid serious injury from falls. People can and should use caution when walking.

[Reference: https://agesafeamerica.com/september-national-falls-prevention-month/]