JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Every 17 seconds, someone 65 or older is hospitalized due to a fall, highlighting a growing health crisis that experts said is largely preventable.
“All falls are preventable, as far as I’m concerned,” said Kris Wilson, an occupational therapist and home safety expert. “It’s just a matter of what you’re willing to do. Just like all car accidents are preventable if you drive slowly and in the correct lane and use your signals.”
Preventable falls cost the U.S. healthcare system more than $80 billion last year, with projections showing that figure could rise to $101 billion by 2030, according to the National Council on Aging.
Wilson pointed to common scenarios that lead to falls among seniors.
“The initial fall is usually caused by somebody doing something that’s outside of their capabilities,” he said. “People climbing on step ladders that probably shouldn’t be on them, using stairs without holding onto the railing, getting up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom without turning on a light.”
Home modifications play a crucial role in fall prevention. Wilson recommended widening doorways for better accessibility and removing or securing rugs that could cause tripping.
Physical wellness is equally important in preventing falls. Wilson emphasized the need for regular exercise, saying that “overall wellness should be a daily routine.”
“Exercising every day, at least 30 minutes, get your heart rate up. It should be uncomfortable; you should be sweaty. It should be hard. If it’s not hard, then you’re not challenging your body,” Wilson said.
For older adults, a single fall can trigger a cascade of health issues, potentially leading to long-term disability. Healthcare experts stress that implementing preventive measures early can significantly reduce the risk of falls and maintain seniors’ independence longer.
The combination of home safety modifications, regular exercise, and a healthy diet creates a comprehensive approach to fall prevention, helping seniors maintain their independence and quality of life while reducing healthcare costs.