Senior Fall Prevention Program

Unintentional falls are a common occurrence among older adults in the United States, affecting approximately 30% of persons aged 65 years and older each year. The injuries received from a fall can result in death, disability, nursing-home admission, and direct medical costs. In 2003, a total of 13,700 persons aged 65 years and older died from falls, and 1.8 million were treated in emergency departments for nonfatal injuries from falls. Falls cause the majority of hip fractures, which often result in long-term functional impairments that might require admission to a nursing home for a year or more.

Idaho's older citizens are more likely to die from a fall than older adults across the country (8.4 deaths per 100,000 in Idaho versus 5.5 per 100,000 in the United States). Idaho's Emergency Medical Systems (EMS) responded to more than 6,000 fall-related calls in 2001-2003. More than half of these calls were from Idahoans over the age of 65.

Falls Can Lead To

• Reduced mobility

• Reduced independence

• Increased admittance to long-term care facilities

• Increased risk of premature death

Risk Factors for Falls

• Lower body weakness

• Problems with walking and balance

• Taking four or more medications

• Visual impairments

• Chronic health conditions

Prevention Measures

• Get regular medical check-ups

• Vision checks

• Medication reviews by your physician or pharmacist

• Improve home environments

• Improve lower body strength/balance by joining a
  Fit & Fall Proof Exercise Class

For More Information

For more information about the Senior Fall Prevention program, call the Senior Fall Prevention Program Coordinator for South Central Public Health District at 737-5988.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Health Topic: Fall Related Injuries

National Institute on Aging
Tai Chi for Older People Reduces Falls, May Help Maintain Strength

Fit and Fall Proof Exercise Program

This exercise program is for individuals that want to improve their balance, strength, and mobility; the exercises are low-impact and can be done standing or while sitting in a chair. Classes are available in the following sites: