Prevent Falls
Let’s keep Minnesotans right side up.
Governor Mark Dayton Proclaims September 22, 2013 Fall Prevention Awareness Day
Read the Proclamation
Falls are the leading cause of injury for children and for adults 35-years and older. Falls and fall-related injuries among adults over age 65 are on the rise. Currently Minnesota ranks fifth among states in the number of fall-related deaths. Having a major fall can change one’s life forever. It could mean giving up living a full independent life. Learn the many ways you can keep Minnesotans right side up.
Learn the Risk Factors
Falls are often the result of multiple factors related to the adult and his or her environment. Studies have shown that the risk of falling increases dramatically as the number of risk factors increases.
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Not Modifiable
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Modifiable
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Older age
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Muscle weakness
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Female
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Gait and balance problems
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Chronic diseases
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Vision problems
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Mentally impaired
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Psychoactive medications
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Not Modifiable
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Modifiable
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Cold temperatures
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Clutter in walkways
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Uneven pavement
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No stair railings or grab bars
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Poor public space designs
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Loose rugs
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Dim lighting
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Get the Facts
Take Action
Screen
A quick proven screening is an easy first step in detecting those at risk and reducing falls and the major injuries that can result from falling. Screening adults is easy and manageable for professionals to do, just by asking the right questions.
Professionals and volunteers should ask the following three questions of any adult on a regular basis. These three questions have been found to have strong value in predicting falls.
- Have you fallen in the past year?
- How many times have you fallen in the past year?
- Are you afraid of falling?
Assess all the Factors
A multifactorial assessment can identify the factors that put an adult at risk of falling and assist in identifying the interventions to reduce falls. Research has found that many health care providers fail to identify and evaluate adults at risk of falling in their clinical practices.
Wenger and colleagues, found that only 34% of older patients receive any fall evaluation.
An assessment should be performed by a professional with appropriate skills and training (e.g. physician, nurse practioner, physical therapist, occupational therapist, or pharmacist). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
STEADI Toolkit provides assessment tools for professionals.
Provide Resources and Referrals
Tools for Health Care and Aging Services Professionals
Tools for Community Based Organizations
