The number one type of call that Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) responds to is FALLS. In fact, falls continue to be a national public health issue. Falls are a major threat to health and independence of older adults, people aged 65 and older. Each year in the United States, nearly one-third of older adults experience a fall. About one out of ten falls among older adults result in serious injury, such as a hip fracture or head injury that requires hospitalization. Falls are the leading cause of injury deaths among older adults.
As you age, your risk for falls increases. However, falls are not a normal part of aging. Many falls can be prevented, especially if you know where to look. By making some simple changes, you can lower your chances of falling.
Five things YOU can do to prevent falls:
1. Talk to your healthcare provider about falls or unsteadiness.
2. Keep moving. Try to get 150 minutes of physical activity every week.
3. Get your vision and hearing checked annually and eat a nutritious diet.
4. Talk to your family. They are a source of support.
5. Keep your home safe. Remove tripping hazards, use appropriate assistive devices, and have good lighting.
If you want to check your risk for falling, you can complete the National Council on Aging’s Falls Free CheckUp. Once you take this survey, you can take the results to your primary care practitioner to discuss your fall risk.
Falls prevention is a team effort. In partnership with MultiCare Deaconess and Valley Hospitals, SNAP, Aging & Long-Term Care of Eastern Washington (ALTCEW), and Community Living Connections, we can provide residents with installed grab bars.
To promote home safety, if you or a family member would benefit from wall grab bars, please contact Community Living Connections: Aging & Long-Term Care of Eastern Washington, 509-960-7281, or via email at action@altcew.org. You can also call the Spokane Valley Fire Department for information at (509) 928-1700.
