Preventing Falls

The incidence of falls is one of the greatest threats to remaining independent as people age.

Each year, more than one-third of adults 65 or older will have at least one fall, and falls are the fifth leading cause of death for that age group. For people 75 and older, those who fall are up to five times more likely to be admitted to a long-term care facility for a year or longer — and many may never get back to their homes.

Falls not only are a physical threat to older adults but also put a financial strain on Medicare. According to the CDC, direct medical costs totaled $179 million for fatal falls and $19 billion for non-fatal fall injuries in 2000. By 2020, the annual cost of fall injuries is expected to reach $54.9 billion.

Falls are due to a number of factors including balance, improper use of medications, foot disorders and muscle weakness. The seriousness of the issue came to national attention in October when former First Lady Nancy Reagan fell in her home. Reagan, 87, was hospitalized and suffered a broken pelvis.

And now the risk of falls is back in the headlines as the winter weather poses increased risk for injuries due to ice and snow. To spread awareness of fall prevention, the United Hebrew Geriatric Center in New Rochelle, N.Y., took the headlines into its own hands with a community seminar called “It’s A Balancing Act: Falls Prevention and Education.”

The center, part of the Burke Rehabilitation Hospital network, put together a panel including a physician and a rehab specialist to answer questions. Topics at the session, which drew 70 people, included risk factors for falls, interventions, exercise programs and preventive measures.

“Falls are a major concern for most older adults. It is imperative for people to understand what puts them at risk for a fall and how to prevent it so that they can remain as independent as possible,” says Rita Mabli, UHGC president /CEO.

Following the discussion, audience members participated in a demonstration by walking on a computerized mat to analyze their footsteps and risk for a fall.

The GAITRite mat from CIR Systems provides instantaneous measurements of a person’s footsteps, including step length and velocity. The gait function measurements are stored for each person and can be used to support reports, individual treatment plans and other analyses.

Fall prevention is an important topic, and particularly during the winter months, offers HME providers the opportunity to raise customer and community awareness by hosting similar seminars or simply showcasing products that can help.

When customers are looking at canes, for example, let them know there is an attachment that will fit onto the tip and act like an ice pick to keep them from slipping. Or perhaps those at risk for falls don’t know hip protectors are available.

Falls do not have to be an inevitable part of aging. Let your elderly customers know you’ve got products that can help keep them upright — and in their homes.

For a home fall prevention checklist from the CDC to give your customers, visit www.cdc.gov/injury, then scroll to “Preventing Falls Among Older Adults.”