Falls & Aging

Of all the risks that come with aging, falling may not seem like the most immediate threat. But make no mistake: falls are a serious issue for older adults, and the consequences can be fatal.

According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among people over 65 years old. In fact, one in four older adults will fall each year. And while some may think that a fall is just a minor inconvenience, the truth is that the consequences can be much more severe. Broken bones, head injuries, and hip fractures are all common outcomes of a fall, and can lead to a rapid decline in overall health. But what's even more concerning is that even those who survive the initial fall and undergo surgery to repair a fractured hip are at risk of dying within the first year of their injury.

According to studies, around 20% of older adults who fracture their hip die within the first year, with even higher mortality rates among those who have other health issues or complications from surgery. This is a staggering figure that should give us pause and make us think about the importance of fall prevention measures and post-surgery care.

One of the reasons for the high mortality rate after hip fracture surgery is the toll it takes on the body. Recovery from surgery can be difficult, especially for older adults who may have other health issues that complicate matters. Surgery itself carries risks, such as infection and blood clots, which can lead to further complications. But the good news is that there are steps we can take to reduce the risk of falls and hip fractures in the first place. Exercise programs that focus on strength and balance can help improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls. Home modifications, such as installing grab bars and removing tripping hazards, can also help prevent falls.

And for those who do undergo hip fracture surgery, post-operative care and rehabilitation are crucial for improving outcomes and reducing mortality rates. Physical therapy can help restore mobility and strength, while other interventions such as medication management and nutrition support can help address other health issues that may impact recovery. Developing strength and stability after surgery can help prevent future falls and increase resilience as well. By taking steps to prevent falls and ensuring appropriate care and rehabilitation after surgery and beyond, we can improve outcomes and reduce mortality rates among older adults.

Unfortunately, many older adults may not take these steps until it's too late. The perception that falls are an inevitable part of aging is deeply ingrained, and can lead to a fatalistic attitude that nothing can be done. This simply isn't true.

If we want to help older adults stay healthy and independent for as long as possible, we need to take falls seriously. We need to make sure that older adults have access to the resources and information they need to prevent falls from happening in the first place. And we need to challenge the idea that falls are simply an inevitable part of aging.

Falls may seem like a small concern, but the reality is that they can have a huge impact on older adults' quality of life. It's up to all of us to take falls seriously and take action to prevent them from happening.

There's no need to wait until you're at risk to take action. That's why we're offering a new balance and fall prevention class for all ages, with the only requirement being the ability to walk for 30 minutes. This class is designed to help you develop the muscle coordination, strength, and stability needed to prevent falls and improve your overall balance, resilience, coordination, and confidence. Whether you're a senior looking to maintain your independence, an adult who wants to improve their physical abilities, or simply looking for a fun and engaging way to stay active, this class is for you.

I believe that investing in your own health and safety is essential for living a long, fulfilling life. That's why we're excited to offer this life-changing class that can help you take control of your balance and prevent falls before they happen. So don't wait any longer, come join us today and take the first step towards a healthier and safer future.