Falls – A Serious Health Concern for Seniors

Article submitted by Barbara Mezinko Senior Account Manager of Lifeline Systems, Inc.
For more information, she can be reached at 1-800-451-0525 ext. 1143.

Falls in and around the home are the most frequently occurring accident affecting the elderly population. In fact, falls contribute to 40% of nursing home admissions and are the seventh leading cause of death in people over the age of 65.

Reports consistently indicate that an estimated one-third of those over 65 fall each year. Of those who fall, 50% do so repeatedly. Falling and the risk of falling increase with age primarily because of age-related changes such as slower reflexes, poor eyesight and problems with balance, plus medical conditions and certain medications. Slippery floors, loose rugs and clutter are just a few of the hazards in the home that contribute to falling.

The prevention of falls is of the utmost importance to improving the lives of seniors. A study in The New England Journal of Medicine found that preventing falls and the resulting injuries can reduce or delay the need to move to a long-term care facility. After a disabling fall, the longer one waits for help, the greater risk of serious complications and even death.

Utilizing a Personal Response Service, ensures that help is available at the press of a button, 24-hours-a-day, 365 days-a-year.

Studies confirm that getting help quickly after a fall:

• Reduced risk of hospitalization by 26%
• Reduced risk of death by over 82%
• Demonstrated that PERS subscribers were 10 times less likely to require admission to a nursing home.

Fall Prevention Checklists are available to help you remove hazardous situations in your home that could cause you to fall. Having a Personal Response Service can help maintain your independence and give you and your family peace of mind.