When caring for older adults, falls prevention is a crucial issue. According to the CDC, falls is the leading cause of injury death for among adults 65 and older. In 2020, emergency departments recorded 3 million visits for older adult falls. And the annual cost medical costs associated with older adult falls is $50 billion.
For a decade and a half, the NCOA (National Council on Aging), the Falls Free Initiative, and partners have educated older adults about falls prevention during Falls Prevention Awareness Week. The theme of the 2023 event is ‘From Awareness to Action’. During the week of September 18-22, 2023, the spotlight will be on falls in older adults.
Falls Toolkit and Other Resources
In this year’s Toolkit users can find shareable graphics, articles, infographics, and printable resources. But there are other resources and educational materials as well.
Recently, the North Carolina Falls Prevention Coalition and the NC Center for Health and Wellness launched a new public-friendly website, StandingStrongNC.org. This site has various resources and information that will be highlighted during the week.
In addition, the North Carolina Falls Prevention Coalition and the NC Center for Health and Wellness are hosting a week-long virtual webinar series to highlight the 6 Steps to Prevent a Fall. Each day will highlight one of the steps that people can take to move from awareness to action. They are encouraging wellness and senior centers, book groups, any group that meets, to host a “watch party” and we have prepared a discussion guide that groups can use to continue the conversation in-person following the virtual event. Participants can attend one or all of the series. Register HERE.
Watch the NCOA video, NCOA Falls Prevention: 6 Steps to Prevent a Fall.