Falls Prevention Awareness
Falls Prevention Awareness Week, September 21-25, 2020, is designed to spread awareness and educate others about the impact of falls and share fall prevention strategies.
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related emergency department visits and can threaten older adults safety and independence. Falls can cause bruising, hip fractures, and head injuries.
However, falling is not a normal part of aging. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), one-fourth of Americans over 65 years old fall each year. Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall, and every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall.
The good news is that most falls can be prevented and you have the power to reduce your risk!
Let’s take a look at some common myths around falls according to NCOA:
Myth 1: Falling is something normal that happens as you get older.
Reality: Falling is not a normal part of aging. Strength and balance exercises, managing your medications, having your vision checked and making your living environment safer are all steps you can take to prevent a fall.
Myth 2: If I limit my activity, I won’t fall.
Reality: Some people believe that the best way to prevent falls is to stay at home and limit activity. Not true. Performing physical activities will actually help you stay independent, as your strength and range of motion benefit from remaining active. Social activities are also good for your overall health.
Myth 3: Muscle strength and flexibility can’t be regained.
Reality: While we do lose muscle as we age, exercise can partially restore strength and flexibility. It’s never too late to start an exercise program. Even if you’ve been a “couch potato” your whole life, becoming active now will benefit you in many ways—including protection from falls.
You can check your risk for falling right now.
