Every September is Falls Prevention Awareness month, created by the National Council of Aging to raise awareness about the impact of falls in older adults. For those of you who know me, I have been working to help people prevent falls for many years through workshops, falls prevention classes, Tai chi and a multidisciplinary falls clinic. The facts are that millions of older people are treated in the ERs every year for fall injuries such as broken bones and head injuries. One out of every four people fall every year and falling once doubles your chance of falling again. Reasons for falling are most times multi-factorial. For example, the sidewalk is cracked + I am in a rush + I am not paying attention + I have a bum knee that impacts my balance: all adding up to why I fell. The basis of falls is related to:
- Medications
- Gait and balance
- Neurological health
- Heart health, vision and hearing
- Joints and mobility
- Environment
Knowing the reasons for a fall is the best way to prevent the next fall. At Mount Sinai Morningside Geriatric Clinic, we have a dedicated clinic to find out why people fall and give recommendations to prevent further falls. If you have fallen or have a fear of falling that is impacting your life contact us at (212) 659-8552 and see if you are eligible for the Falls Prevention Clinic. Tell them that you would like to come to the Falls Prevention Clinic and mention that you spoke to Renee.
