The official first day of the Fall season cleverly coincides with National Fall Prevention Awareness Day on September 22. Many have seen these numbers related to falls before, but they are too staggering not to mention again here. About one in four adults (28%) age 65 and older report falling each year, and approximately 40% of those over 80 fall each year. One out of every five falls causes a serious injury such as a broken bone or head injury, resulting in roughly $50 billion spent on medical costs each and every year.

Almost everyone has now heard of the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) due to the current pandemic. But did you know that the CDC has been creating and sharing information to decrease falls with older adults for years? One of the most recent tools that they have created is the STEADI Toolkit. You can find their Stay Independent brochure here: Stay Independent (cdc.gov). Let’s focus on the 3 most telling questions listed in that brochure that can quickly indicate if you or a loved one are at an increased risk to fall.

Do you feel unsteady when standing or walking?

No one knows your body better than you, and if you feel unsteady, something might be going on. This unsteadiness could be related to many different things including lower body weakness, decreased flexibility, decreased vestibular (inner ear) function, low blood pressure, and certain medications. That is why it is important to discuss any unsteadiness with a healthcare professional, and a physical therapist is the perfect person for the job.

Do you worry about falling?

This question is closely tied to the first. If you are worried about falling, there is likely a reason that you are feeling this way. If you answered yes here, this is the perfect time to see a physical therapist. You will be much better off addressing this fear of falling instead of waiting for an actual fall to occur.

Have you fallen in the past year?

Studies show that older adults are greater than 2x as likely to fall if they have already experienced a fall in the previous 12 months. Falls, especially those resulting in an injury, can be the beginning of a vicious downward spiral of worsening weakness, decreasing mobility, and reduced socialization. I am proud to say that I have helped many people reverse this cycle through rehabilitation, education, and lifestyle changes.

If you or a loved one answered yes to any of the above questions, a follow up is recommended for further assessment. Utilize your entire healthcare team to address the underlying concerns; talk to your physician and pharmacist regarding your medications, see an optometrist regularly to maintain optimal eye sight, and build a relationship with an awesome physical therapist that can address any and all issues related to movement. If you address these things early on, it could potentially add more quality years to your life!!