Did you know that every 35 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall? In 2008, about 2.1 million seniors were treated in the emergency room for falls and more than 550,000 of these patients were subsequently hospitalized. The total cost of all fall injuries for older Americans was $19 billion in 2000. By 2020, the annual direct and indirect cost of fall injuries is expected to reach $54.9 billion.
These statistics are staggering, but there are ways we can help prevent older adults from falling in their homes. For example, the Center for Disease Control lists home modifications, like installing grab bars and handrails, as one of the top four recommendations for reducing the risk of falls.
September 23rd is Falls Prevention Awareness Day, and we are taking this opportunity to share information with the community about falls prevention and what we can do to help older adults live safely and independently in their homes. Through our Safe at Home Program, we make minor home safety and accessibility modifications, such as installing grab bars and handrails, for low-income homeowners who are older adults (+55) or individuals living with a disability. These modifications are provided at no cost to the homeowner and can prevent falls, enabling older adults and individuals living with a disability to continue to live safely in their homes for years to come.
If you or someone you know might benefit from our Safe at Home program or if you would like to volunteer for this program, please contact us at SafeAtHome@RebuildingTogether-TwinCities.org or 651-776-4273.
