MSDH Proclaims Falls Prevention Week for Older Adults

Jackson, Miss. — The beginning of Fall also marks Falls Prevention Awareness Week, a nationwide observance with state coalitions and partners to raise awareness on preventing falls, reducing the risk of falls, and helping older adults live without fear of falling. State Health Officer Dr. Daniel Edney has proclaimed September 23-27 Falls Prevention Week here in Mississippi.

Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. Falls are costly, in dollars and in quality of life. However, falling is not an inevitable part of aging. Through practical lifestyle adjustments, evidence-based programs, and community partnerships, the number of falls among seniors can be reduced substantially.

It is estimated that 17 percent of Mississippi citizens are 65 years of age or older; one-fourth of people 65 and older will fall each year, and one out of five falls causes a serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury. Falls can lead to depression, loss of mobility, and loss of functional independence.

According to the Mississippi State Department of Health’s Office of Vital Records and Statistics, falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among people 65 and older in Mississippi, leading to 286 deaths in 2021; 2,828 hospitalizations in 2021; and 259 emergency department visits in 2021.
Falls can be dangerous for older adults, but they are avoidable. Simple steps can help:

• Regularly review your medications with your doctor to avoid side effects that can affect your balance.
• Have your vision, prescription eyewear, and hearing checked regularly. These are important aids to good balance.
• Keep your living space balance-friendly. Remove low obstacles that are tripping hazards, and make sure carpet edges are secure from catching your feet.
• Considerer a rolling walker or other aid to help you maneuver at home or away from home safely.
• Take falls prevention training (like MSDH'S free A Matter of Balance program below) to help improve your balance, confidence and awareness of hazards.

The Mississippi State Department of Health offers A Matter of Balance, an evidence-based falls management program, across the state at no cost to participants. A Matter of Balance is an 8-week group training that emphasizes practical ways to reduce fear of falling and increase activity levels. Participants learn to view falls and fear of falling as controllable, set realistic goals to increase activity, change their environment to reduce fall risk factors, and exercise to increase strength and balance. The program was designed to benefit community-dwelling older adults who:

• Are concerned about falls
• Have sustained falls in the past
• Restrict activities because of concerns about falling
• Are interested in improving flexibility, balance and strength
• Are age 60 or older, ambulatory and able to problem solve

To learn more about preventing falls please visit the MSDH website at msdh.ms.gov/balance.