You’ve seen the commercials so much now that it’s almost cliche – “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up.” By now, everyone knows how serious a fall can be to a senior. According to the CDC, 36 million falls are reported among seniors each year. One in five falls causes an injury, and over 32,000 seniors die annually as the result of a fall. And as great as services are that assist seniors after they fall, it would obviously be much better if the fall never happened.
Well, there is help. In Ohio, two organizations have a specific goal of preventing falls for seniors. A statewide program, SteadyU, is a program run by the Ohio Department of Aging. They emphasize reducing falls by paying attention to the “Three H’s” – your home, your health and your habits. They offer tips and assistance in avoiding falls. They also offer a Falls Risk Assessment, an anonymous questionnaire designed to determine your risk of having a fall.
In Southwest Ohio, the Falls Prevention Taskforce seeks to “reduce falls and fall-related injuries in older adults though community collaboration, awareness, education and effective interventions.” Over 20 groups and organizations throughout Southwest Ohio, Northern Kentucky and Southeast Indiana help find ways to keep seniors safe from falls in their homes. They offer screening tools, news, classes – such as Tai Chi and yoga – that help with balance, and much more.
Though both resources are based in Ohio, the information and tools provided can help anyone!
In addition to these state resource, the CDC also publishes a Stay Independent Brochure with helpful tips and a risk assessment.
All of these resources are free, and could help prevent a fall. So be sure to check them out!