Governor Kelly declares this week as Kansas Falls Prevention Week.
The purpose of the declaration is to raise awareness to the risk that falls pose to older people. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among people 65 and older in Kansas. It is estimated that for every older Kansas adult who dies from an unintentional fall, 61 more are treated in the emergency department for an unintentional fall-related visit.
Falls threaten older adults’ safety and independence and generate enormous economic and personal costs. However, the number of falls among older adults can be reduced through practical lifestyle changes. Falls can be reduced by utilizing cost-effective strategies, such as exercise programs to improve balance and strength, medication management, vision improvement, reduction of home hazards and fall prevention education.
