Reducing fall risk
A vital step toward healthy aging
ANYONE CAN FALL, at any age, at any place and at any time. But for seniors, falling can be frightening and a serious health matter—not only for the physical repercussions of falling but also the emotional trauma that often follows.
Falling can be financially expensive, conceivably altering relationships and possibly life-changing daily routines. Other common health issues, such as osteoporosis, can compound the consequences of falling.
In 2023, there were 53,666 unintentional fall-related visits to the state’s emergency departments and 9,054 fall-related inpatient hospitalizations in acute care facilities, according to the Kentucky Safety and Prevention Alignment Network. Unfortunately, 359 fall-related deaths occurred among Kentucky residents over the age of 65.
A proactive fall prevention program can improve quality of life for adults 65 and older, helping them remain active, healthy and independent.
Consult your physician to look for modifiable behaviors and medications to reduce your fall risk. It’s also a good time to check vitamin D levels, get an osteoporosis screening and schedule future regular health checkups. In addition, there will be documentation about how you are addressing your own fall prevention strategy.
Get an eye exam. Proper vision can help prevents falls while enabling you to enjoy other daily activities.
Conduct a home assessment to identify potential fall dangers.
Get active. Physical activity helps improve balance and strength, and prevents osteoporosis. Whether you’re just starting to exercise, trying a new routine or ramping up the intensity, consult your physician before you begin. Invite family members, friends or others to join you.
September 22–26 is Kentucky Fall Prevention Awareness Week. To mark the occasion, the Lexington Senior Center is hosting a public event on September 23, and the Kentucky Safe Aging Coalition is holding its Annual Virtual Fall & Osteoporosis Summit on September 25.
ROY TAPP, PH.D., is coordinator for the Kentucky Safe Aging Coalition, based at the Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center.
