First day of Autumn marks National Falls Prevention Day
Every 11 minutes, a Pennsylvania senior is hospitalized for fall-related injuries.
Today is the first full day of fall, and also National Falls Prevention Day. Every 11 minutes, a Pennsylvania senior is hospitalized for fall-related injuries.
Falling down is no joke, says Steve Rakoczy, COO of Liberty In Home Care in Devon, Chester County.
“If you’re over 65, you have a 40% chance of falling each year. You have a 10% chance – if you’re over 65 – of falling and not being able to live independently again. And the whole idea behind the day is to let people know there are things you can do to reduce your risk of falling…and getting hurt.”
Rakoczy says people can make their homes safer by improving lighting, removing throw rugs and clutter that can lead to a trip. He also suggests moving frequently used items to easily reachable places.
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