The Risk of Falling
Each year, millions of older people – 65 and over – fall. In fact, more than one out of four older people fall each year, but less than half tell their doctor as they should. And falling even once doubles your chances of falling again.
Falls, with or without injury, can have a heavy quality of life impact. A growing number of older adults fear falling and thus limit their activities and social engagements. This lack of activity can result in physical decline, as well as depression, social isolation, and feelings of helplessness.
Injuries extract a heavy toll. According to the CDC, each year in the U.S.:
- 3 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries.
- 800,000 older people are hospitalized due to falls, most often due to a head injury or hip fracture.
- Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI).
- More than 300,000 older people are hospitalized for hip fractures.
- In 2015, the total medical costs for falls exceeded $50 billion, and continues to grow each year.
Many falls do not cause physical injuries. But one out of five falls does, and these injuries can make it hard for a person to get around, do everyday activities, or to live on their own. So, working to prevent falls should be part of every older person’s game plan.
Click here for CDC information on falling.
What can you do to prevent falling?
- Have your physician or pharmacist review your medications to make sure they do not make you dizzy or sleepy.
- Do strength and balance exercises that make your legs stronger and improve your balance.
- Have your vision checked at least once a year.
- Make your home safer by eliminating trip and fall hazards.
SCNOVA sponsors an Active Aging Wellness class via Zoom, held every week on Wednesdays, and is led by Tim Sun, an experienced exercise physiologist. It is designed to provide a blend of exercise to improve balance and strength, and reduce the risk of falls. It is conducted in 8-week sessions that cost $50 for the 8-class session. Each class focuses on low impact exercises, balance, coordination and stretching. Anyone 50 years or older is invited to participate.
The current 8-week session is underway (check our calendar for the current schedule). Each weekly class is from 10:45am to 11:45am over Zoom.
To register or for more information please contact Casey Tarr (703-821-6838 and eileentarr1@verizon.net). The Zoom link will be provided after registration and payment.
