Older Adult Falls Prevention

Overview

Unintentional falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among Florida residents ages 65 years and older.

In 2019, 3,013 older adults were fatally injured in a fall.

In addition to deaths and injuries, as well as the costs associated with them, falls can have many negative consequences for older adults, including:

• Fear of falling again
• Forced relocation from the home
• Loss of independence
• Stress in the family

By reducing their chance of a fall, older adults can stay independent and have an increased quality of life.

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Preventing Falls Among Older Adults

There are many reasons why an older adult might fall, including a variety of biological, behavioral, and environmental factors. These risk factors include:

• A previous fall
• Chronic health conditions (e.g., arthritis, stroke)
• Conditions in the home (e.g., slippery floors, loose rugs, cords on the floor, poor lighting)
• Fear of falling
• Medicines (including interaction effects)
• Mobility problems (e.g., muscle weakness, balance)
• Poor nutrition (leading to weakness, dizziness, fainting)
• Poor vision or hearing

Older adults who have one or more of these conditions may have a higher risk of falling. The following practices are recommended for older adults to reduce their chances of falling and help them stay independent:

• Exercising regularly (especially leg strengthening and improving balance)
• Having an eye doctor check their vision at least once a year
• Making their home environment safer
• Reviewing their medicines with a doctor or pharmacist

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Interventions

There are evidence-based interventions for older adults, including programs designed specifically to prevent falls. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has resources available for providers interested in these interventions, including a compendium of evidence based fall interventions and a guide on developing community based falls prevention programs. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) also has information about evidence based programs. A few of the interventions being conducted in Florida include:

•  A Matter of Balance
• Otago
• Stepping On
• Tai JiQuan:  Moving for Better Balance (previously known as Tai Chi:  Moving for Better Balance)

Older adults interested in participating in a community based program should contact their local Aging and Disability Resource Center.

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