Nicole Cavalino, Nederland. If you are 60 years old or older, have fallen in the past year, feel unsteady when standing or walking, or worry about falling – you are not alone.

Falls have the unfortunate honor of being the top cause of injury and injury-related deaths in older adults. Studies have shown that the all-cause mortality rate doubles for adults over 60 who have experienced a hip fracture. Nearly 40% of all older adults will experience a fall that will lead them to hospitalization.

Hip, head and wrist fractures are the most common injuries seen as a result of older adult falls. Although some are more severe than others, even the most simple fractures can cause significant functional impairments, pain and distress. 

Additionally, the emotional trauma of even a minor fall can trigger a fear of falling in older persons, leading them to limit their social and physical activity and in-turn lose their strength and independence, often leading to isolation and depression. The effects of a fall can cause a major overall decline in self-sufficiency, suddenly leaving the person reliant upon others for daily activities including bathing, dressing and meal preparation.

To recognize the critical issue, at the national level, each State declares the first week of fall each year as Fall Prevention Awareness Week. At the heart of this initiative is the message that falls are preventable. During Fall Prevention Awareness Week, Colorado’s fall prevention coalitions, health care providers, and senior service agencies will hold presentations, health fairs, screenings, and workshops to raise awareness among older adults and their families and caregivers, elder care professionals, and the general public about the seriousness of falls and ways to reduce fall risk.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control there are four things you can do to prevent falls: 1) Have your healthcare provider review your medicines. 2) Exercise to improve your balance and strength. 3) Have your eyes and feet checked. 4) Make your home safer by eliminating trip hazards and turning on lights for better visibility.

These prevention measures can help prevent falls and keep you safe and healthy. 

(Originally published in the September 26, 2019, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)