Fall Prevention Awareness Day (FAPD) is fast approaching! Celebrated on the first day of Fall each year this is an awareness campaign gaining momentum throughout the United States and continues to improve its’ reach and mission. According to the National Coalition on Aging (NCOA) an older adult visits the emergency room every 11 seconds for a fall related injury of which many are preventable.
Fall Prevention Awareness Day is a nationwide effort to increase fall awareness and prevention by the NCOA. Prevention of falls is the emphasis of the movement to avoid what can be very serious consequences of an older adult falling.
Both caregivers and those being cared for can help prevent unnecessary falls by keeping in mind the following basics by the NCOA:
- Participate in an exercise program to increase balance and flexibility.
- Keep your health professional informed of any falling concerns and seek their input.
- Monitor all medications with your medical professional and pharmacist.
- Regularly check vision and hearing.
- Evaluate your home and remove any possible fall hazards.
- Involve the family and ask for assistance when needed.
More Fall Prevention Awareness Day Resources
Images and resources courtesy of the NCOA
2015 Falls Free National Falls Prevention Plan
Infographic: 6 Steps To Prevent A Fall
Osteoporosis And Falls Fact Sheet
Andria Perry says
I did not know the first day of fall was also fall prevention day. Good info. thanks.
Bill Kasman says
As someone who used to work as a carer for the elderly I have seen at first-hand the loss of confidence, mobility and even the will to live a fall can bring to an elderly person. All those who care for or who have regular contact will a vulnerable person should bear in mind the possibility of a fall and the potential consequences of a severe injury which may result in the victim never regaining their full mobility.
tab says
I have seen the same and agree increased awareness and knowledge helps all.