For adults over 65, falls are the leading cause of injury-related death in this age group, with the rate of fall deaths increasing with age.  There are things that we can do to avoid falls and I encourage you to take action. The best way to avoid being injured from a fall, is to not fall in the first place. Things happen that we cannot control, but there are things that we CAN control.

Key Facts: 

• Leading cause of injury death. Falls are the primary cause of fatal injuries among older adults. 
• Increasing death rates. Fall-related death rates have been increasing in recent years. 
• Higher rates with age. The risk of falling and dying from a fall increases with each five-year age group after 65, with the highest rates among those 85 and older. 
• Male vs. Female. While more women report falling, men tend to have a higher death rate from falls. 
• Financial burden: Fall-related injuries among older adults also place a significant financial burden on the healthcare system, with costs projected to reach over $101 billion by 2030. 

Contributing Factors: 

• Age-related decline:
  With age, there are declines in muscle strength, balance, vision, and cognitive function, all of which can increase the risk of falling.
  
• Medical conditions:
  Chronic diseases and the medications used to treat them can also increase fall risk.
  
• Environmental factors & How we Walk:
  Trips, slips, and falls can be triggered by environmental hazards such as throw rugs, things piled up in the floor, uneven surfaces and poor lighting.  Shuffling our feet and wearing improper shoes increase fall risk. A heel-toe gait and walking by “kicking out” our feet as we walk is the natural way we are meant to walk. If we are shuffling our feet on the ground as we walk then we are setting ourselves up to trip and fall. If you are wearing shoes that impede your ability to walk natural and/or encourage shuffling of the feet = big trouble. Repeat after me: Flip Flops are not shoes.

Prevention: 

• Fall risk assessment
  Regular medical checkups can help identify and address risk factors for falls.  If you have a chronic health condition and take medication, be aware of side effects such as dizziness. Ask your doctor if there are changes you can make to your lifestyle (nutrition & exercise) that will help prevent or improve chronic health conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, elevated lipids, high blood pressure or heart disease.
  
• Fall prevention strategies:
  Interventions such as strength and balance training, medication review, and environmental modifications can reduce the risk of falls. 
  
• Home safety:
  Simple adjustments like removing tripping hazards and improving lighting can make a big difference. 
  
• Awareness:
  Being aware of the risks and taking proactive steps can help older adults stay safe and reduce the likelihood of falls. Whether at home or out-and-about, always be aware of your surroundings. Be aware of steps, uneven surfaces and tripping hazards. Always use handrails when available.