As we approach National Fall Prevention Week (Sept. 23-27), it is crucial to raise awareness about the dangers of falls, especially among older adults. Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths for individuals over 65, with 38,000 fatalities reported in 2021 alone. That same year, emergency departments saw nearly 3 million fall-related visits. The financial toll of non-fatal falls exceeded $80 billion in 2020.
The number one predictor of a fall is a history of prior falls, and factors like muscle weakness, gait abnormalities and certain medications (including those taken to manage blood pressure, pain and depression/anxiety) can increase risk. Conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, vision impairments and inner ear problems also contribute to falls, creating a dangerous mix for older adults.
Preventing falls starts with awareness and proactive care. Through collaboration, like WSHA’s Falls with Injury Prevention Panel (FIPP) Collaborative, we can create safer environments for aging populations. Let’s invest in fall prevention strategies now to protect our elders and curb the growing financial strain, which is expected to surpass $100 billion by 2030. Contact Amy Anderson at amya@wsha.org for more information and join the next FIPP meeting on Oct. 24. Together, we can make a difference.
Sincerely,
Amy Anderson
WSHA Director, Opioid Harm Prevention and Hospital Quality
amya@wsha.org
