What you can do
to prevent falls:
Begin a regular
excercise program.
Have your health care provider review your medicines.
Have your vision checked
every year.
Make your home safer.
To learn more
Download the Tips for Fall Prevention flyer.
Alaska Senior Fall Prevention
Your choices make a difference
Did you know that accidental falls are the number one cause of injury to Alaskans age 65 and older, often causing
serious injury such as brain trauma or hip fracture? Many falls can be prevented by making changes that lower your chances of falling.
September 2020 is Falls Awareness Month!
Governor Dunleavy has proclaimed September 23, 2020 as Senior Falls Prevention Awareness Day.
Stay Independent... Join us at an Alaska Health Fair
Fall prevention education is coming to Health Fairs this year. Find out how to stay independent as long as possible and how to help your loved ones to do the same. Fill out a short survey to check your risk for falling and enter a drawing for a chance to win $250 for a nonprofit organization of your choice.
Go4Life
Go4Life Month is a celebration of the benefits of exercise for older adults:
- What you can do to make exercise a long-term healthy habit
- Safety tips
- Doing all 4 types of exercise (endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility)
- Tracking your progress
- Staying motivated to be active
Facts About Senior Falls
According to the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services:
- Falls are the number one leading cause of serious injury requiring medical attention and the loss of independence among Alaska residents aged 55 plus.
- In 2016 alone, (most recently available compiled data) the total amount billed to Alaska seniors for falls-related injuries was approximately $135 million—triple the amount billed in 2012. The average fall cost $80,000 for acute services only; including emergency medical services, emergency departments, intensive care units, and hospital charges.
- Alcohol, prescription drugs, and other substances are associated with increased likelihood for falls. Of those screened, 64% tested positive for alcohol, 25% tested positive for prescription drugs, and 25% for other substances. Further analysis of the data indicates the majority of those who tested positive for other substances had also tested positive for marijuana.
The following page has additional information and resources related to Senior Falls Prevention:
Learn more about fall prevention
Public Service Announcements
Did you know that falling is the number one reason Alaska seniors are hospitalized? Senior Fall Awareness week is a good time to double check that your home is safe for seniors.
-
Keep stairways clean, well lit, and with a secure hand rail.
- Keep vinyl floors dry and tape down loose rugs.
- Keep a lamp or nightlight on.
- Use a non-skid bath mat.
- And use ice grippers or a walker outside.
This is Dr. Ward Hurlburt, Alaska’s Chief Medical Officer. At age 76, I strive to be healthy, active, independent and injury free. Senior Fall Awareness Week, is a good time to:
- Exercise regularly,
- Review your medications with your healthcare provider,
- Use a home-safety check list to avoid hazards, and
- Schedule your annual eye exam.
For more information
Throughout the year, ACoA will send out information and ideas for activities each month focusing
on fall prevention for Alaskan seniors.
Please contact
Alaska Commission on Aging by email
or call (907) 465-3250.