Studies show one in four Americans aged 65 and older falls each year, making falls the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older adults. In fact, every 11 seconds, a senior citizen is treated in the emergency room for a fall; every 19 minutes, someone dies from a fall. It's a growing and significant public health concern.
 

Falls can cause broken bones, including wrist, arm, ankle and hip fractures. Even more so, falls can cause serious head injuries. Just the mere fear of falling can cause a person to become less active, and in turn, become weaker and increase their chances of falling.

"Falls are a serious issue at a national, state and local level," Polly Fullom, Trauma Care Coordinator at Union Health, said.

According to the United States Census Bureau, Indiana and Illinois are below the national average when it comes to fall reports, injuries and deaths among adults age 65 and older. However, that same age bracket makes up 16.1% of the population across both states – which makes fall prevention a major focus for our Union Health Trauma Team.

Falls are also extremely costly. In fact, each year more than $60 billion is spent on medical costs related to fall injuries and fatalities.

Here's the good news. Most falls are preventable.

"Falls are common, but not a normal part of aging," Fullom said. "By knowing the risks and making simple lifestyle changes, a person can lower their likelihood of falling and remain independent longer."

Do you know the top five causes of falls? 

1) Impaired Vision: Cataracts and glaucoma alter depth perception, visual acuity, peripheral vision and susceptibility to glare.

Solution: Get your vision checked annually. Add color and contrast to identify objects, such as grab bars and handrails.

2) Home Hazards: Most homes are full of falling hazards, such as: rugs, clutter, steps, poor lighting, unstable chairs or tables, extension cords, cracked sidewalks and even pets. 

Solution: Be aware of your surroundings. Clean up the clutter. Take things slow. Light up your space. 

3) Medication: Many drugs reduce mental alertness, affect balance and gait and cause drops in systolic blood pressure while standing. Mixing certain medications can increase these effects that cause falls. 

Solution: Talk openly with your healthcare provider about each medication and how it can impact your daily routine.

4) Chronic Conditions: Parkinson's, heart and kidney diseases, along with other conditions can increase the risk of falling.

Solution: Talk to your physician and follow your treatment plan. If you are a caregiver, know how to recognize red flags.

5) Weakness or Low Balance: Weakness and lack of mobility leads to many falls.

Solution: Exercise regularly to boost strength, increase muscle tone and improve balance. Ask your doctor about the best type of exercise program for you.

Fullom says most falls are caused by a combination of risk factors. The more risk factors a person has, the greater their chances are of falling.

September is National Falls Prevention Month, with Fall Prevention Awareness Week landing on the 21st through the 25th.

Always remember to Play it Safe!

This important safety message is brought to you by your Union Hospital Emergency Trauma Team.