Why Falls (Should) Matter To You.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one in four older adults report a fall each year. In 2021, 38,742 older adults aged 65 and older died from preventable falls, and nearly 2.9 million were treated in emergency departments.

Injuries and fatalities from falls steadily increase with age and peak among those aged 85 and older. Not surprisingly, research shows that older individuals who require mobility assistive devices like canes and walkers are at especially high risk for falls. Compared with older individuals who do not use assistive devices, users are 11 times more likely to report a fall in the last three months and are six times more likely (odds ratio 7:1) to report that they limit walking outside due to concerns about falling [2].

If you own or manage an independent living community for seniors, these are alarming statistics. It could potentially mean a 25% decrease in monthly revenue.

In addition, the long-term damage may be unquantifiable. Many family members of independent seniors have an expectation that their loved ones are in an environment that is as safe as possible, given that most of them have some form of impairment that increases the risk for falls. If the needs of their loved ones are not being met, then their families may seek an alternative living environement.

Muscle weakness, balance deficits, cognitive issues, and gait abnormalities are all common issues in adults over the age of 65, but many falls are preventable if these impairments are effectively addressed. With a healthy diet, medication management, regular exercise, and additional support as needed, many seniors may be able to live safely with a high quality of life and dignity with reduced fear of falling and hospitalizations.

Studies have demonstrated that complex falls prevention interventions delivered to a residential aged care population can possibly reduce fall risk when additional staffing, expertise, or resources are available [1].

Encore Valet Services, LLC provides Doorstep Trash Pickup to Residential and Senior Apartment Communities. We understand how basic activities of daily life can be challenging for people with mobility and balance issues, and can impair their ability to remain at home independently. We want to be the additional support needed to help keep your residents free from falls and hospital visits, and provide peace of mind to their families.

Our mission is to help seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life.

Ask how Encore can help your community today by contacting us at: info@encorevaletservices.com or visit our website: www.encorevaletservices.com. You can also find us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

References:

1. Appeadu MK, Bordoni B. Falls and Fall Prevention in Older Adults. [Updated 2023 Jun 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560761/
2. https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/home-and-community/safety-topics/older-adult-falls/data-details/