Falls Prevention Awareness Day

"The fact that one in three Americans over the age of 65 falls every year is probably just the tip of the iceberg".

The La Crosse County Falls Prevention Coalition will sponsor a workshop and other activities about the potential for falling and suggestions to avoid doing so from 12:45 to 3 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22, at First Presbyterian Church, 233 West Ave. S.

About 2.8 million cases were treated in emergency departments, and approximately 800,000 seniors went on to be hospitalized for fall-related issues.

Still, much more must be done if we are to bend the curve and change the story of falls in Vermont.

And the problem is growing as more Americans age into the 65-and-over category. "Our foundation includes preventing instability of health and wellness by engaging, empowering and enabling older Pennsylvanians to age in place with dignity; which is why we are so pleased to share our fall prevention experience, the successes we've achieved, and the expertise we've accumulated by making Healthy Steps for Older Adults available to others". As falls increase, so do health care costs.

"Falls may seem like an unavoidable part of aging, but they're not". Indeed, broken hips and serious head injuries are not uncommon results, which can be debilitating and necessitate ongoing rehabilitative care.

"Elderly patients tend to not report falls to their families, or even doctors".

Make your home safer by getting rid of fall hazards. "Certainly, you don't want that to happen, no one wants that to happen".

Phelan said the psychological consequences of falls should not be underestimated. "They become frailer and lose independence", she said.

In 2015, the Medicare costs for non-fatal falls nationally were over $31 billion, according to CDC data.

Fall Prevention Awareness Day is a great time to learn about the link between fall related injuries and osteoporosis. Also recommended: vitamin D when appropriate to boost bone, muscle and nerve health.

"People who fall may develop a fear of falling", she said.

Installing grab bars and handrails throughout your home as needed.

Throw rugs and uneven flooring can be tripping hazards in the home, so remove loose rugs and make sure floors are in good fix. Regularly review of your medications with your pharmacist or medical professional to make sure side effects aren't increasing your risk of falling.

In addition to being well received by older adults, HSOA has also won several awards, including the Council of State Government Silver Award for exemplary falls programs and the National Media Bronze Award for consumer outreach. "People are falling because they don't have the right thing on their feet". "Seniors should wear low, non-slip shoes to provide better and more stable support".

And bid adieu to those Jimmy Choos and Christian Louboutins. Another major factor: more prescription medication use. "Through practical lifestyle adjustments, evidence-based programs and community partnerships, the number of falls among seniors can be reduced substantially".

Find a good balance and exercise program.

Cantrell said both locations will see anyone who comes in and that anyone who scores above a certain point on the assessment will be encouraged to speak to their doctor about any therapy they might need to help prevent a fall. "But falls are actually preventable in the vast majority of cases".